Obituary of Russell Dodd

O. Russell Dodd, 80, of Niles, Michigan passed away on Sunday, October 24, 2010 at St. Joe Regional Medical Center in Mishawaka, surrounded by his family, following a brief illness. Russell was born on February 12, 1930 in Fort Morgan, Colorado to the late Oscar B. Dodd and Louise (Muse) Dodd-Parks. After graduating high school, Russell enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served during the Korean Conflict era. On February 23, 1952 he married Bette J. Radecki at a ceremony in Niles, Michigan. Russell worked for Studebaker's in South Bend and then as a journeyman tool maker 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, ten 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, thirteen 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 on Tuesday, October 26, from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. at Brown Funeral Home in Niles and an hour prior to funeral services on Wednesday at 11:00 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, Michigan 49107.