May 15, 1930 — June 21, 2014

Russell Arthur Saathoff, 84, of Niles, died on Saturday, June 21, 2014, in Phoenix, Arizona, following a brief illness. He was born May 15, 1930, in Niles to Arthur W. and Adaline (Strang) Saathoff. On May 7, 1955, he married the former Eleanor Joan Howard. She preceded him in death on Oct. 16, 2007.

Russell was a 1952 graduate of Niles High School. He worked in the family business for United Dairies in Niles and owned many apartments around town. He was a member of the Niles Lions Club and the Niles Shrine Club. He enjoyed visiting the Elkhart Shooting Center and was the 1972 Michigan State Trap Shooting Champion. Russell was a fan of auto racing and football games.

Surviving family includes son Richard (Tami) Saathoff of Phoenix, Arizona and daughter JoEllen (Robert) Gamso of Niles; six grandchildren; three great-grandchildren and Russell’s brother, Kenneth (Nan) Saathoff of Arizona.

The family will gather privately for services with interment at Silverbrook Cemetery, Niles.

Donations in memory of Russell may be made to the American Heart Association or to the American Diabetes Association.

The Halbritter Funeral Home, Niles, is assisting with arrangements.www.halbritterfunerals.com