Russell E Peelman, 88, a resident of Kalkaska for the past 30 years, passed away on Dec 13, 2002, at Kalkaska Memorial Health Center Long Term Care where he was a patient for 11 years.
He was born on Aug 14, 1914, in Havre, Mont, the son of Ellsworth and Carrie (Johnson) Peelman.
Russell married Dorothy Ray on Aug 22, 1936 in Otisville at the Nazarene parsonage. They resided in Flint for 36 years. Russell worked for General Motors for 10 years, then was a city bus driver and truck driver until retiring at 57 and moving to Kalkaska.
Russell then began working for the Commission on Aging driving a bus. He loved the north and enjoyed fishing - especially ice fishing - and hunting. Russell suffered a stroke in Aug 1989 which left him paralyzed on the right side. For being such an active person all his life, he adjusted to his disabilities and was a happy person giving hugs and kisses to everyone.
Russell is survived by his loving family, including his wife, Dorothy, of 66 years; sons, Russell "David" (Mary McCormick) Peelman of East Tawas and James M (Melissa) Peelman of Lansing; grandchildren, Brandon, David, Kim, TJ, Nathan, and David J; step grandsons, Pat and BJ; his sisters, Frances (George) Stephens of Durand, and Ruth Dice of Gaines; brothers, Homer (Alma) Peelman of Bannister and Glen (Betty) Peelman of Flint; and several nieces and nephews.
He was proceeded in death by his parents and his granddaughter, Donna, who passed at the age of 38, three days after her heart transplant.
There will be a graveside service for friends and family on Sat, May 24, at 2 pm at Excelsior Township Cemetery.
Memorials may be given on behalf of Russell E Peelman to the Kalkaska Memorial Health Center Long Term Care.
Arrangements were made by Wolfe Funeral Home.
