Russell McKinnon

Russ died peacefully at home in his sleep on October 19, 2021, with his wife Patricia of almost 50 years of marriage at his side, along with sons David (Tiffani) and Craig (Jessica); also, an abundance of family.

Russell Gene McKinnon was born on January 5, 1951, in Des Moines, Iowa. His parents were Ronald and Rose Marie (Trudeau) McKinnon.

Close to his heart were his grandchildren. They meant more than words could express. The boys Nick, 13, and Nathan McKinnon, 9, were “his buddies.” Their bond was so very special. Jaquelynn, his five-year-old granddaughter, was his “baby girl” whom he adored. He so loved taking his grandchildren fishing down at the pond.

Russ and Pat always made their house feel like home to everyone that came, especially the friends of their sons. Many of these friends are considered much more as they are part of the family. These friends include Breanne Kelderhouse, Kris Weathers, Kevin Cornell, Ryan Harcourt and too many more to name.

He is survived by his older brother Rick (Jean) McKinnon, preceding him in death were Roger (Sally) McKinnon (Brother) and Rita (Mike) McKinnon Hurchick (sister). Also important to Russ was Mr. and Mrs. Ed and Nancy Snyder (Patricia’s Parents) whom he loved as “his own.”

After graduating from high school Russ went to Michigan Technological University where he studied forestry. In 1971 Russ joined the U.S. Coast Guard, he and his wife Patricia traveled to Elizabeth City, NC then returned to Traverse City to complete his tour of five years.

For a time Russ worked in construction then worked for the County Road Commission and then onto Bay Communications. Russ then started his own business, Rad-Tech Services. After selling Rad-Tech he then went on to work as a Fiber Optic Specialist for Tyco Communications, where he traveled the world.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations being made to the American Cancer Society.

An informal gathering will be held on October 28, 2021, from noon to 2:00 pm at Life Story Funeral Home. Thereafter Military Honors and burial will be held at Oakwood Cemetery at 2:45 pm.

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