Kathryn Christena Russell

Kathryn "Kay" Russell, age 90, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2009 at Paradise Board and Care facility in Calimesa, CA. Kay was born Kathryn Christena Herold in Cross, WI, to Henry and Minnie (nee Hunger)Herold on October 13, 1918. she was one of four children, and was preceded in death by her siblings Anderw Herold and Frances (Leonard) Lettner. She is survived by her sister Hermina (Bernard) Boland. She is also survived by her step-sons Jack Russell and Merrill Russell, and by many nieces and nephews. Kay was the beloved wife of the late Ralph K. Russell, who preceded her in death in 1994. They shared 48 years of happiness together, following their marriage in Chicago in 1946. Now they are together again, for all time. She was a long-time resident of California, she held positions in retail sales and as a buyer at various stores, including Leeds, Sears, and Godwins's for 15 years. She also worked as an "aircraftress" as an aviation plant during the war years. She and Ralph had made Calimesa, CA, their final home for over 45 years. Kay was known to all as a very pleasant and outgoing person. She was a member of the Yucaipa United Methodist Church for 34 years, and was a lady of great faith in God. She had many special friends, several of whom looked after her almost daily as her condition declined over time. Kay exhibited great courage while fighting debilitating illness during such periods; "giving up the fight" was never an option for her..only living the special life with which she was blessed. Two of her special attributes were her sense of humor and her love of cooking. She had a lovely smile and laughed often through both good times and bad. She was that rare person who touched people wherever she went with her openness, her genuine interest in everyone, and her kindness to all in word and deed. She was most happy while in the kitchen. Her special recipe for Christmas "toffee" candy was a treat looked forward to by the many friends and family memebers for whom she made it. She always enjoyed sharing meals with her friends at her prior residence (Ponderosa Mobile Estates), and dining out together. Kay will be deeply missed by all who knew her..but never forgotten..and her spiritual strength will always inspire us. She is now at peace with her Lord. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, February 18,2008 at 11:00a.m. at Emmerson Bartlett at Yucaipa, CA. Private interment will be held at Bellevue Memorial Park in Ontario, CA.