O. Russell Dodd / Feb. 12, 1930 — Oct. 24, 2010
Published 2:58 am Tuesday, October 26, 2010
O. Russell Dodd, 80, of Niles, passed away Sunday, Oct. 24, 2010 at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in Mishawaka, surrounded by his family, following a brief illness.
Russell was born Feb. 12, 1930 in Fort Morgan, Colo. to the late Oscar B. Dodd and Louise (Muse) Dodd-Parks.
O. Russell Dodd
After graduating high school, Russell enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served during the Korean Conflict era. On Feb. 23, 1952 he married Bette J. Radecki at a ceremony in Niles. Russell worked for Studebaker in South Bend and then as a journeyman toolmaker for Torrington for many years.
When able, Russell enjoyed gardening and camping. He was a faithful member of Coulter’s Chapel Church of God in Niles. He also gave much of his time and efforts to supporting Children’s International Lifeline, including several trips to Haiti.
Russell is preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Ronald Dodd; and a sister, Ann Thompson.
He is survived by his wife, Bette Dodd of Niles; a son, David (Bonnie) Dodd of Three Oaks; two daughters, Debra (Hank) Williams of South Bend and Diane (Tim) Claeys of Mishawaka; 10 grandchildren, David (Sheila) Dodd, Mindy (Aaron) Benson, Kimber Kowalski (Michael Brock), Chrystan Kowalski, Michael Kowalski, Matthew Kowalski (Jamie Shirtz), Whitney Corner (Austin Borkowski), John (Ashley) Rutkowski, Dawn Claeys-Nuenthel and Andrew Claeys; 13 great-grandchildren and an additional great-granddaughter due in December; a sister, Darlene Dodd; and many nieces and nephews.
A time of visitation will be held today from 4 to 7 p.m. at Brown Funeral Home in Niles and an hour prior to funeral services on Wednesday at 11 a.m. at Brown Funeral Home with Pastor Jerry Kissinger officiating.
An interment will follow at Mission Hills Memorial Gardens.
Memorial contributions may be made in Russell’s memory to Children’s International Lifeline 16106 Brookwood Drive, Buchanan, MI 49107.
Condolences, photos and memories may be left for the family at www.brownfuneralhomeniles.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home, Niles.
