Duane Rolland Russell, 79 years, died Thursday, December 22, 2022 at his home. He was born July 24, 1943 in Fort Madison, Iowa, a son of William Henry and Thelma Ruth (Knipe) Russell. On March 10, 1973, he married Marsha McPherson in Carthage, Illinois. She survives.
Duane was a 1960 graduate of Central Lee High School. He was a veteran of the United States Navy, serving during the Vietnam War. He worked at Dupont for 21 years, retiring in 1995. He was the animal control officer for the Fort Madison Police Department for 10 years. He drove heavy equipment for another 10 years for Mike Pieper with MCO. He was a commercial fisherman and dove for clams, as well as an avid duck hunter. He was an artist. He made many wood carvings, including ducks, fish, and more. He turned old tires into turtles, frogs, and a tucan. He had a cabin on the Mississippi River and enjoyed his daily visits with his friends at the cabin. Duane loved and was so proud of his family.
He is survived by his wife, Marsha Russell of Fort Madison, Iowa; one daughter Valera “Suzy” Russell of Montrose, Iowa; one grandson Alexander Russell Beach of Montrose; two siblings: Juanita (Richard) Sandford and Darlene Hawkins and the McPherson Family. He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, and his father/mother-in-law, Darrel and Valera McPherson.
A burial with military rites will be held at a later date. A memorial has been established, contributions may be left at or mailed to Barr Memorial Chapel, 1919 Ave F, Fort Madison, Iowa 52627. Barr Memorial Chapel is honored to serve the Russell family and an online guest book may be found at www.barrmemorialchapel.com.
