W. Wayne Russell, 68, Alexandria, passed away Wednesday at his home with his family by his side.
He was born in Roaring Spring, son of the late Walter H. and Dolly K. (Dodson) Russell. He was united in marriage to Diana I. Hayward on April 2, 1964, in Cumberland, Md.
Surviving are his wife, with whom he shared 48 years; three sons: Walter "Rusty" and wife, Kristin, of Martinsburg and currently doing mission work in Boracay, Philippines, Keith C. and companion, Heather Crayosky, of James Creek and Aden J. and wife, Raylene, of Alexandria; 15 grandchildren; a sister, Janet K. of Warren, Ohio; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Wayne was a 1963 graduate of Hollidaysburg High School. He was employed by Penn Central/Conrail at the Samuel Rea Shop in Hollidaysburg for 13 years before returning to his true love, farming. He operated farms in both Newry and at their current residence in Alexandria. Upon retiring from farming, he drove a tractor-trailer cross-country, traveling through all 48 contiguous states, and he always had a story to tell.
Wayne was a member of the Mount Moriah Lodge 300, F&AM, of Huntingdon and a lifetime supporter of 4-H, Future Farmers of America and other agricultural organizations. He enjoyed spending time with his family, especially hunting with his sons and grandchildren. He enjoyed tinkering with his antique tractors and attending tractor pulls with them.
Friends will be received from 11 a.m. until the 1 p.m. funeral service Saturday, Aug. 18, 2012, at Sorge Funeral Home Inc., Hollidaysburg, conducted by his grandson, Ben Russell. A Masonic service will be held at 11 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Blue Juniata FFA, c/o Juniata Valley High School, P.O. Box 318, Alexandria, PA 16611.
