Greg went to spend Thanksgiving with Jesus. He was born on March 12th, 1950 in Forsyth, MT. He was the third child of five born to Hallie and Leona Russell.
Greg grew up at Boulder River School and Hospital and moved to the Helena area in the mid-1980’s. Since that time he has lived in several Spring Meadow Resources homes. He worked at Helena Industries until 2015, when he retired to the Day Program at Spring Meadow Resources.
Greg was well known for his contagious smile, jovial laugh, and good handshake, which he used when greeting friends and strangers alike. Greg was very social and likes to watch people, often imitating their gestures and pattern of speech. His endearing personality was hard to resist. He was a sweetheart and everyone loved him.
Greg was seldom seen without his “shades,” always wearing them when outdoors, and often indoors also. He had many pairs to choose from, as he always needed to have any new ones that he saw.
Greg had vacationed in Maui several times and loved to wear his Hawaiian shirts and dance the hula. He loved these trips, seeing new sites, playing in the ocean, swimming races in the pool, and wearing his leis and treasured sunglasses. He looked at his photo albums often.
He was an active participant in Special Olympics, including bowling and track and field. He was very proud of his various medals.
Greg loved to write in his notebooks and collect pens. If pens were missing, Greg probably had them! He enjoyed coloring, working on craft projects, and going out, to church, to eat, to the movies, or anywhere else people were going. If he could, he would have had pizza, ice cream, and pop every meal.
Greg is survived and greatly loved by sister, Lynn Russell Gunther of Loveland, CO., brother, Dr. Monte Russell and Ellen of Le Mars, IA and sister, Ann Russell Tone and Tim of New Braunfels, TX and Bozeman, MT as well has aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and tons of cousins. He was preceded in passing to his tender rest in Jesus Christ by his mother, Lee Boeyink Russell (USN Veteran WWII) his father, Hallie Vanderbilt Russell (USM Veteran WWII), and beloved brother Hal Warren Russell DCM.
When Greg left us, he took a piece of our hearts. He will be greatly missed.
A celebration of Greg’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 6, 2017 at Spring Meadow Resources in the main office, 2850 Broadwater, Helena. A luncheon will follow the service. At a later day, burial will take place at Custer Battlefield National Cemetery where he will be laid to rest with his parents. Please visit below to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Greg.
Debbie Gutowsky says
I was Greg’s work supervisor for many years. He was always a hard worker and loved by all his co-workers. He brightened our days with smiles and hugs. He was a good man, and I will miss him, but smile when I think of him.
Debbie Gutowsky
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Paula RN says
Jesus loved him.
Cindy Platts says
Greg was only with us at Hudson for a short time, but he certainly made an impact…at least with me. He was such a sweet soul who loved his hugs. I will miss you, sweet man.
Robin says
Sorry for the loss!
your smile will live for ever! 
Adeline V. says
To the Family and friends of Gregory “Greg” Russell, sincere condolences. I often write to those who have lost their dear loved ones, knowing the pain and sorrow that it brings to all. What a wonderful, loving and caring man. He truly appreciated life and enjoyed every minute. Something we sometimes take for granted. We are not without hope, God is a Fulfiller of promises and will restore the lives of many. He created life and can restore life. John 5:28,29 and Acts 24:15 I pray these promises will bring you comfort and hope.
Sincerely, Adeline V.
jw.org