Russell C. Dunkel's Obituary
Big Rapids Russell C. Dunkel, 89, of Big Rapids, passed away Sunday, March 13, 2011, at Altercare of Big Rapids. He was born June 21, 1921, in Hopkins, Michigan, the son of Frederick and Clara (Arnsman) Dunkel, and lived in Big Rapids his entire life. For several years, he owned and operated Russ Standard Service on North State Street in Big Rapids. Following that time, he worked for Michigan-Wisconsin (later ANR) Pipeline for many years in the Austin Gas Field until retiring in 1983. Russ was a lifetime member of St. Peters Lutheran Church in Big Rapids. He was a wonderful woodworker, having crafted many items for his family and church. On April 25, 1941, he married Grace M. Martz, who survives. Also surviving are two daughters, Sherry (Robert) Hickman of Big Rapids, and Sandra (Thomas) Wise of Mecosta; 5 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; 1 great great grandson; his in-laws, Harold (Marge) Martz of Grand Rapids, Robert (Murlin) Martz of Big Rapids, and Allen Hales of Grand Rapids; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother Robert Dunkel, and a sister Clara Arnson. Funeral services will be 11:30 a.m., Wednesday, March 16, 2011 at St. Peters Lutheran Church in Big Rapids with Pastor John Bookshaw officiating. Burial will follow in the Highland View Cemetery. Russ family will greet friends after 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday at the church. Memorial contributions in his name may be made for St. Peters Lutheran Church, with envelopes available at the church or Mohnke Funeral Home, where arrangements are entrusted. ?
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