Russell King

Russell L. King passed away on August 26 at the age of 91. He lived with dedication to his faith and left this world a better place for having passed through it.

He loved his wife, Kathy (Agnes Katherine Robbins) who died in 2021 after 66 years of marriage. Their oldest son, Russ Jr. died in 1978. Russ loved his family. He is survived by his children, Bob (Brenda) Mary, John (Katie), Jim (Roberta) his grandchildren, Terra, Josh, Londyn, Jessica, Brian, Alexi, Nikita, Misha, Maya and Ian, great-grandchildren, Jenny, Josh, Everett and Sawyer and Adriana, and great-great grandson, Elias.

Russ grew up with scarcity during the great depression yet excelled academically. He served in the U.S. Army attaining the rank of first lieutenant. Russ and Kathy married in 1954 and immediately moved to Guam where Russ was stationed. Throughout their lives, they both cherished that special time as newlyweds on an island paradise.

Returning to Akron, Russ worked at Goodyear while obtaining a degree from the University of Akron. After retiring, he returned for another degree and a new career in counseling. Russ was an avid reader and a lifelong learner, fascinated by diverse fields. As long as his health allowed, Russ enjoyed tennis, racquetball and golf. He enjoyed camping and water skiing with family. He
was a longtime fan of the Cleveland Browns, proving the depth of his faith and his hope in miracles.

Russ served his community. He provided meals to the hungry, even on days like Thanksgiving and Christmas. He opened his home to foreign exchange students. He volunteered with the Red Cross, bringing relief to families after fires, hurricanes and other disasters. Even in times of loss and hardship, Russ sought ways to bring blessing. And he became a dedicated caregiver to Kathy, as her health deteriorated.

His faith in Jesus Christ was his light and salvation. He led spiritual seminars like Cursillo, Search, and Life in the Spirit. He was very active in his Catholic faith. Russ had a diverse spiritual life that drew from the classics as well as contemporary writers. He was moved by the spiritual pilgrimages that he made to Israel, Palestine and Medjugorje.

Russ prayed often; he longed to know Christ and follow close to him. His great longing is now fulfilled as he joins his wife, Kathy, and his son, Russ, leaning on the everlasting arms of God’s love.

Friends may call, Friday August 30 from 4:00-7:00 pm at Ciriello and Carr Funeral Home, 39 South Miller Rd. Fairlawn, OH 44333.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday August 31 starting 10:00 am at St. Hilary Catholic Church, 2750 West Market St., Fairlawn, OH 44333.

Interment following Mass at Woods Cemetery.

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