Delores E. 'Dee' Russell

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Russell, Delores E. (Dee) 97, passed peacefully into the arms of Jesus on May 5, 2024 surrounded by the love of her dear family. Dee was born July 1, 1926 to Mae and Milo Brown in Estherville, IA. The family lived in Fairmont MN and St. Paul for a time, but settled in Spirit Lake, IA where she graduated from high school. She felt that she had a rather idyllic childhood as the first grandchild and enjoyed time on the farm with her paternal grandparents and at golf courses with her maternal grandparents. Her maternal grandfather called her little Brownie, but in his Scottish brogue, it came out "Brunie" and that nickname stayed with her. Dee's brother Richard arrived just before her 9th birthday and they remained very close over the years. In Oct. 1945, when handsome Donald Russell returned to Spirit Lake after serving as a pilot in WWII, she began a whirlwind romance with him. They were married Valentine's Day 1946 and moved to Minneapolis to begin their new life together. They made the Twin Cities their home for almost 75 years of marriage. Don passed away Feb. 2, 2021 and we rejoice that they are now reunited. Dee and Don raised their five daughters in Richfield. Dee played an active role in Don's real estate and homebuilding business for many years. Home and family were her heart and soul. Music always played a special part in Dee's life. She enjoyed playing piano and her beautiful singing voice was shared in multiple church choirs. Dee was a gifted seamstress and sewing brought her great joy. From clothing to crafts and eventually quilting, she excelled in her design and sewing skills. It was a true gift to view or receive her creations. Family trips and enjoying beautiful MN lakes were a highlight. Lucky was the pet that found itself a part of Dee's family, she loved them all. Her gift for gardening was second to none and she felt a special closeness to her Creator surrounded by the beauty of nature and its creatures. She was a STRONG, loving role model and beautiful in every way. Forever Blessed. Dee is survived by five daughters, Cheryl Russell, Christie (Ron) Ball, Donna (Brad) Ruona, Jody (Mike) Vober, Melissa Russell (Jim Frederickson), Grandchildren Christopher Mertes, Colin (Mellissa) Mertes, Aaron (Alicia) Ball, Abigail (Pat) Ball, Vanessa (Nick) Squiers, Zach Ruona, Erin (Vern) Vie, Bailey Ruona, Ben (Holly) Guth, Jesse (Nina) Guth, Nia (Casey) Stoken, Chelsea Breslin and 20 great-grandchildren. Special sister-in-law Sharry Brown, loving nieces, nephews and dear friends. Memorials to the donor's choice. Cards may be sent to: Chris Ball P.O. Box 23, Mound, MN 55364. Twin Cities Cremation 651-645-1233

Published on June 30, 2024