Russell N. Smith's Obituary
Decatur-Russell N. Smith, 89 of Decatur, passed away 6:38 pm Thursday, January 27, 2011 at Decatur Memorial Hospital.
Cremation rites will be accorded as per Russell's wishes and no services will be scheduled. Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home is assisting his family. Memorial donations may be made to the Disabled American Veteran Association. Online memories and condolences may be shared with Russell's family at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
Russell was born on September 27, 1921 in Tilton, IL the son of Floyd and Evelyn (Card) Smith. He attended Danville High School. He retired from A.E. Staley Co., where he worked for 32 years. He was an active member of Local 837 for 12 consecutive years. He was the former co-chairman of the United Way; representing the hourly workers at A.E. Staley Co. He served in the U.S. Marine Corp from Sept. 17, 1941-Oct. 17, 1945. He participated in action against hostile forces at Guadalcanal, Tarawa, Saipan and Tinian. He was recommended for a silver star for his actions at Tarawa. He was wounded on Saipan in June of 1944. He was the recipient of bronze battle stars. A member of the VFW post 5224. Lifetime member of D.A.V. chapter 17 American Legion post 105. He ran for the Decatur township ticket 1956 and was on the committee that selected the memorial for IL. Vietnam Veterans at Oak Ridge cemetery Springfield, IL.Russ married Angela Oliviero on August 31, 1946, she survives. One son; Thomas (Mark), wife Betty Smith. 3 Grandchildren Leann (Ryan) Sosamon; John Thomas and Shelby Smith. He leaves behind several nieces and nephews.
He is preceded by 2 sons; Mike and John Smith. One brother; William Smith.
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