| Russell McCray Powers, Jr. |

Russell McCray Powers, Jr., 82, of Dannebrog, died unexpectedly at his home on May 1, 2025.

A celebration of Russell’s life was held on May 17, 2025 at the Fire and Rescue Station in Dannebrog. Inurnment with military honors was held in the Oakridge Cemetery in Dannebrog on May 18, 2025. Memorials are suggested to the Dannebrog/ Boelus Fire and Rescue or the family of Russ Powers.

Russ was born on January 25, 1943, in Monrovia, California, to Russell, Sr. and Opal (Olmsted). He graduated from Dannebrog High School in 1961. He served in the United States Navy, entering on November 10, 1964, and was honorably discharged on November 6, 1968. He was united in marriage to Shari (Kister) Powers on March 18, 2020.

Russell was preceded in death by his parents, brother Harold Ford and partner in “alleged crime” Jerry Winget (no charges were ever made).

Russell was also known as father to Brian (and Tammy) Powers, Tony Powers, Amanda Ryan, and Mat Kister. Brother to Don Olmsted, Marlene Powers Snyder, Albert Powers, and Judy Leahy. Maytag to those in his life that referred to him as an ”agitator.” Pussgut to his oldest friends that he played softball and fished with. Coach to the many girls he coached in softball. Shipmate to those he served with in Vietnam during his time with the United States Navy, including Bob Hoffman. CheeChee to those who knew him when he was at the golf course. “Fast” to those who were unlucky enough to foot race him on main street. But his favorite name was grandpa, to Brittany Powers, Justin “Spencer” Powers, Jacob Stermer, Tyler Stermer, Brianna “Sweet Pea” Sager, Parker Jantze, Elijah Anderson, and Silas Anderson. Russ was also grandpa to many other kids, including those at Grace Christian School, friends of grandkids, kids with the last name of Winget, Wilson, Greenwald, Grim, Evans, Berger, Seldon, Evertson, and many others not named here that he would tease, harass, or pick on as a great grandpa would.

Jacobsen- Greenway- Dietz Funeral Home in St. Paul is assisting the family. Online condolences may be directed to the family at www. jacobsengreenway.com.

The Phonograph-Herald | May 21, 2025