James L. Russell, age 89, of East Dundee, died Friday, February 17, 2006 at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on June 19, 1916 in Goreville, IL. He was the son of Lee Roy and Ida (nee Gower) Russell.
    Mr. Russell was an 80 year resident of the area and a former 35 year employee of the Elgin Metal Casket Co retiring in 1981. He was a member, past president, secretary, and treasurer of the Upholsters International Union Local #175. Mr. Russell was a World War II Army Air Corp Veteran and a member of Elgin American Legion Post #57. He was a member of the Bethlehem Lutheran Church of West Dundee.
    Survivors include his wife of almost 65 years, Carolyn J. (nee Haut) Russell. They were married on April 19, 1941. Their children, Tom (Bonnie) Russell of Carpentersville, Larry (Judy) Russell of Empire, AL and Patti (Fred) Wagner of East Dundee. Five grandchildren, Kevin (Crissy) Russell of Empire AL, Jason (Sonja) Russell of Gilberts, Michelle Russell of West Dundee, Lisa Murray of Empire, AL and Kristina Russell of West Dundee. Five great-grandchildren, Brittany Russell, Kristen Rockett, Ashlyn Murray, Brenden Murray and Jake Russell. Also a brother, George (Edna) Russell of Elgin.
    He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Ralph Russell; and a sister, Reba Geske.
    Family and friends will meet for funeral Services on Monday at 11:00 AM in the Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 401 W. Main Street in West Dundee. The Rev. John S. Carrier, Pastor will officiate. Private burial will be in the Lakewood Memorial Park Cemetery, Elgin. Visitation will be on Sunday from 2-6 PM in the Miller Funeral Home, West Dundee and on Monday in church from 10:30 AM until time of services. Please omit flowers; memorials may be made either to the Bethlehem Lutheran Church, West Dundee or the American Heart Association.