Frank Albert Russell, of Elk Rapids, lost his battle with cancer and passed away, peacefully with his family by his side on May 31, 2025 at Traverse City Hospice House.

Frank was born June 17, 1943, in Elk Rapids, MI to the late Willard Norvel Russell and Mable (Lewis) Russell. Frank had 2 sisters, Mary Ellen and Betty.

Frank lived his whole life in Elk Rapids, attended and graduated Elk Rapids High School in June 1962.

Frank married the love of his life, Diane J Plough, on January 7, 1966 at St Francis Church in Traverse City, MI . Frank was very proud of his children, son, Randy W Russell (Amy Knust), daughter Ronda M Russell-Yanski (Tracy Yanski) and his grandson Scott Russell.

Frank worked several jobs, Super Tool, Burwoods, Shoreline Container and GT Container. He would have stayed at any one of these jobs but the companies kept closing up shop, and he moved on to the next opportunity.

Frank was a wonderful friend and neighbor and delighted in helping many people. Be it mowing lawns or pinstriping cars. He would organize card games and outings to car shows with his buddies. He loved cards (he and Diane were part of a cribbage club for over 50 yrs) bowling, attaining league championships for 1974-1980 and a member of the 200 club. He also loved and collected Eagles of many kinds, his collection has over 100 items, including a life size metal eagle made by his best friend and artist Charlie Mordon in his front yard.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents, Willard and Mable, sister Mary Ellen Gotts mother-in-law Mary Louise Plough and his good friend Charlie Mordon.

Frank leaves behind his wife of 59 yrs, Diane, children Randy and Amy, Ronda and Tracy, grandson Scott along with many nieces, nephew and cousins, and especially will be missing his cat, Kitty.

The funeral will be held at Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral home in Traverse City on June 14, 2025. Visitation at 10:00, service at 11:00.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made the Munson Hospice House or to Cherryland Humane Society.