Russell Lee Joseph Anderson Jr. Obituary

Russell Lee Joseph Anderson, Jr. of Rocky River, entered into eternal rest on Friday, January 1, 2021. Russell was born during the Great Depression. He grew up in West Virginia where he left school at an early age and became a self-taught electrician.

He worked for LTV Steel for 44 years before retiring in 1996. His former coworkers will forever remember him for his absurd pranks and silly drawings. Most will remember him as a dear friend.

Other than being a great dad, Russell was most proud to be a U.S. Marine. He served in combat during the Korean War and was an expert rifleman. Throughout his life, he continued to support the Military in any way he could and wore the USMC emblem every chance he got. He enjoyed connecting with other Veterans, young and old.

Russell never had it easy, but he did enjoy the finer things in life, like a hot cup of coffee, watching a boxing match with friends, playing with his daughters' pets and the combination of Fritos and buttermilk. He loved spending time with his kids and talking with friends. He loved animals, classic country music and offering a helping hand to anyone that needed it. He lived to make others happy and never asked for much for himself. In his later years, he found joy in sharing old war stories, receiving mail from friends, and building things with his son-in-law.
Thanks to the staff of the Bickford of Rocky River and Fox Rehab, he was able to enjoy a father-daughter dance with all four of his daughters in October and he had an enjoyable Christmas with family and friends. Russell battled dementia for over five years, but he proved with one last valiant stand that even a year like 2020 has got nothing on a tough old Marine. He passed away peacefully Friday, January 1st, 2021, knowing how incredibly loved and admired he was, and forever will be.

He is survived by his daughters, Sandy Anderson, Shana (Justin) Coune, Ashley (Logan) Anderson and Taylor Anderson; his sisters, Juanita Humphreys and Brenda (Larry) Luporter and ex-wife, Rosalie Anderson.

He was preceded in death by his only son, Russell A. Anderson and ex-wife Beverly Anderson; he was the son of the late Russell L. Anderson, Sr. and Mary Marshall (nee Bonovitch); brother of the late Troy Stone, Theron Emerson Stone, Rose Strunk, Faye Gregory and Patricia McWhirt. He was an uncle, cousin and friend to many.

To honor Russell's memory, please thank a Veteran, hold the door open for a stranger or call and catch up with an old friend. Say his name often and with a smile, so that even in death he can continue to make this world a happier place.

All services have taken place privately.