John L. Russell, 82, a resident of Pottsville, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, May 27th, 2024.  John was a proud retired US Army veteran and was well known in the local Legion and VFW groups.

John was born in Pottsville, a son of the late Arthur and Alice (Sherriff) Russell. He attended Pottsville area schools, and then entered the United States Army in 1958, where he dedicated over 20 years of service to his country. While on active duty, he served with the 7th calvary division in Vietnam. Later years were spent with the 63rd armor in Ft. Riley and 82nd Airborne in Ft. Bragg. The end of his active career was served with the 1st. Calvary division. While serving he was a gunner, tank commander, and a supply sergeant. He earned the Bronze Star, Army Commendation Medal and Vietnam Service Medals.

At the end of his active enlistment John's service to his country continued.  On the civilian side he returned to the Pottsville area where he worked as a security guard at the county prison, then for Penn Steel in Hamburg, and finally as a security guard for Big Lots.

For his country and fellow servicemen/ women, John served with multiple organizations during the rest of his life. His services included Vice president of Veterans of Vietnam War Inc., Commander of Post 38 in Schuylkill Haven, Veterans Affairs Benefits Advocate, and countless other organizations. John was invited to meet president Bill Clinton in 1996 for his service to his fellow veterans.

He was a deeply patriotic member of his community and service related organizations. John attended all local memorial day and veterans day events, sharing stories and lessons learned to the younger generations.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his wife, Charlotte (Rexon) Russell in 2006, two brothers, Harry and Arthur, and by a sister Dolly Russell.

He is survived by his daughter, Kimberly Brensinger, along with two grandchildren, Steven John Russell-Rhen, and his wife Kaitlyn and Hope Alexis Rhen. He leaves behind two great grandchildren, Aubrey Nicole Rhen and Kaidah McKenzie Kelly, and is expecting the arrival of a great grandson in the near future.

A Brother, Robert Russell, and two sisters, Alice Russell and Doris Fessler also survive, as do many nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Service with Military Honors will be held at the Indiantown Gap National Cemetery in Annville, PA on Tuesday, June 4th at 1:30 PM.  Anyone wishing to attend the service is asked to meet at the cemetery entrance at 1:15pm.

The Schlitzer Allen Pugh Funeral Home, is honored serve the family of John during their time of need and you may leave an online condolence at www.schlitzerallenpugh.com