Delbert D. 'Del' Russ age 81, passed away peacefully on Wednesday February 7, 2024 at his home in Centerville after a short battle with cancer. Born April 17, 1942 in Washington, Michigan, he was the son of the late Lee and Peggy Hyman Russ. In addition to his parents, he was preceded by a sister and brother-in-law, Ray and Garry Pardon, mother-in-law and father-in-law, Thomas and Gladys Hunt, brother-in-law, Jack Hunt and sister-in-law, Bonnie Sue Hunt.

Delbert was the owner of Russ's Glass Service in Gallipolis for many years, he later worked as a custodian for the Gallipolis City Schools from which he retired in 2006. His passions in life included riding and racing motorcycles, hunting, fishing and attending car shows with his prized 1959 Corvette. He was also a life member of Gallipolis Elks Lodge #107.

Del was a 50-year veteran of Fire Service. He served his first 10 years as a basic firefighter in Washington, Michigan. He continued the next 40 years as a basic firefighter and officer for the Rio Grande Fire Department, retiring in 2012 as a Lieutenant from the RGFD. He was also an honorary member of the Centerville Fire Department.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Joyce Hunt Russ, daughters, Melissa (Scott) Donley Sr. and Michelle Russ, grandson, Scott A. (Janelle) Donley Jr. and great grandchildren, Callie, Hattie and Wyatt Donley. Also surviving is a brother, Don (Linda) Russ and several nieces and nephews.

A Fireman's Service will be 2:00 PM Saturday February 17, 2024 at the Waugh-Halley-Wood Funeral Home with Chaplain Bob Hood officiating. Friends may call at the funeral home on Saturday from 11:00 AM until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Rio Grande Fire Department 241 East Lewis Ave. Rio Grande, Ohio 45674.

An online guest registry is available at waugh-halley-wood.com