Tom Sawyer Russell

Tom Sawyer Russell LTC (Ret) Tom Russell passed away on November 9, 2010 at his home in Sebring, Florida. He was born on March 21, 1931 to George and Lois (Sawyer) Russell. He attended Litchfield High School, where he excelled in all sports, graduating in 1949. He continued his education at Hamline University while playing baseball and basketball. Tom graduated from St. Cloud majoring in Education and Science. He was a teacher and coach in McLoud, California. He received his Masters Degree in Secondary Education Administration/Psychology from the University of Nevada at Reno in 1971. Col. Russell joined the Air Force during the Korean War in 1951. He was commissioned 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Army in 1952. He served 2 tours in Vietnam. Col Russell graduated from the Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, in 1971. He retired as the Inspector General of Fort Leavenworth after 26 years of military service. Tom was active as a coach for his sons teams, served on the Lansing School Board, and was a Board member for the Lutheran Church in Litchfield, Minnesota. He enjoyed his family most of all, as well as sports, hunting and fishing. Survivors include his high school sweetheart and wife of 57 years, Alice Marie of Sebring, Florida; son, Todd Sawyer (Meg) of Niceville, Florida; son, Terry Theodore (Gina) of Haines City, Florida; grandchildren, Zachry, Whitney and Luke Russell of Kansas; and sister, Joan Larson of Willlmar, Minnesota. A celebration of his life was held at his home with Pastor Bill Breylinger officiating. Burial will be held at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida with full military honors. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to the Union Congregational Church Service Fund, 106 North Butler Road, Avon Park, Florida 33825. Rest in peace our dear Husband and Father, you will be missed and remembered forever, Your Loving Family. Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home Avon Park