Melvin D. Russell 90, of Hillsboro passed away Dec. 20, 2017 at his residence.

He was born Oct. 29, 1927 in Butler IL to Wayne and Elsie (Bramel) Russell.

He was a graduate of Hillsboro High School.

He worked at Eagle Picher for over 20 years and he retired from the city of Hillsboro as lead engineer from the fire department. He served in the US Navy during WWII as a fireman.

He married Louise Hemken on Jan. 30, 1949 and she survives.

He is survived by 6 children: Lynn (Jim) Washburn of Taylor Springs, Steve Russell of Davenport IA, Debby (John) Lewey of Hillsboro, Mike (Shawna) Russell of Athens, Sherri (Mike) Finn of Hillsboro and Mark (Teresa) Russell of Rochester 14 grandchildren, 21 Great Grandchildren and two brothers John (Charlene) Russell of Bourbonnais IL and Jim (Charlene) Russell of Hillsboro.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers Harold “Rusty” and George Russell and one great-granddaughter Jayleigh Noell Lewey.

He was a member of the Calvary Baptist Church, He was a volunteer fireman of Hillsboro for over 32 years, Mt. Moriah Masonic Lodge #51 where he was past worshipful master, Hillsboro Moose lodge #1377, VFW post #1306, ANSAR Shrine, Eastern Star#95, CEFS board of directors and delivered meals on wheels.

Visitation will be Tuesday Dec. 26, from 4-7 pm at Calvary Baptist church in Hillsboro with Masonic rites at 7:00 P.M.

Funeral Services will be Wednesday Dec 27, 2017 at 11:00 A.M at Calvary Baptist church with Rev Jeff Hemken and Rev James Hayes officiating.

Burial will be at Oak Grove Cemetery in Hillsboro with Military rites conducted by VFW #1306 and Irving American Legion post #425.

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