Hance Russell

Hance H. Russell, age 82 of Montello/Westfield, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Sunday, February 28, 2010 in his Montello home. He was born on June 29, 1927, Township of Westfield, son of the late Francis and Lillian (Breitenfelt) Russell. Hance proudly served his country during the Korean Conflict with the U.S. Army. He married Elsa Franzmann on June 11, 1960 in Lake Mills. Hance was a lifelong farmer in the Township of Westfield, worked for the Commission on Aging for seven years and was the first driver they had. Hance also worked for Marquette County for 11 years as the Veteran Service Officer. He was a member of Westfield American Legion and a faithful member of St. John’s Lutheran Church, Montello. Hance enjoyed horses and playing cards.
Survivors include his wife, Elsa; five children, Merry (Ziggy) Stardust, Milwaukee, Mark (Peggy) Russell, Portage, Patti (Jeff Smith) Russell, Ripon, Naomi (Dan) Smith, TX and Frankie Russell, Montello; six grandchildren, Matt Russell, Kenny Hampton, Ivy and Holly Machmueller and Russell and Rachel Smith; three sisters, Frances Sprain, Westfield, Margery (John) Dorfmeister, CO and Helen McMasters, Delavan; one brother, Robert (Nancy) Russell, CO; four brothers in law, Bob (Joan), Mount Horeb, Dave (Nancy Grant), WA, Tom (Jane), CA and Curt Franzmann, IL; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Hance was preceded in death by two brothers in law, Don Sprain and Don McMasters; father and mother in law, Werner and Naomi Franzmann.
A memorial service for Hance will be held on Thursday, March 4, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Montello with Pastor R.F. Westendorf officiating. Inurnment will be in Oak Hill Cemetery, Township of Westfield at a later date. A visitation will be held on Thursday from 9:30 a.m. until the hour of service at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to St. John’s Lutheran Church, Montello.