Russell Connor

Russell Lester Connor, 87, a lifelong resident of Webster died August 27, 2010. Russell, the only child of Paul and Jennie Connor, was born in the family home on Connor's Lake on March 1, 1923. After his graduation from Webster High School he was drafted into the U.S. Army for service during World War II. He was stationed in Hawaii and attained the rank of Staff Sargeant. Following his return from the war, Russell married his wife of 62 years, Lyla Marie Gardner on August 28, 1948. To this union, two children were born Paul and JoAnn. Russell was a local business man. He operated the Connor's Service Station and produced Connor's Wild Rice along side his family for over 60 years. He continued to be active in his business up until the last weeks of his life. As a young man Russell was an exceptional hockey player and sportsman. He formed a best friendship with Jim Burford that lasted over 80 years. Russell was an avid outdoorsman that felt closest to God in nature. He took great joy in fishing, hunting, berry picking and gardening. He was a talented artist and woodcarve and had a love of music and dancing. Russell was proud of his Native American heritage and his Country. He enjoyed discussing history and politics. Above all else, Russell was a captivating story teller who loved good food and good conversation. He was endlessly proud of his family, friends, customers and fellow patriots. He will be dearly missed by many. Russell was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Jennie; and friend Jim Burford. Russell is survived by his wife Lyla; son Paul (Dianne) Connor; daughter JoAnn (Edward) Zaspel; grandsons Joe (Emily) Connor and Rusty (Kirstin) Zaspel; granddaughters Melanie (Dan) Johnson, Jill (Nick) Weber and Kelly (Sean Johnson) Zaspel; great grandchildren Josie, Talen, William and Croix; as well as many other friends and family. Funeral services will be Thursday, September 2, 2010 at 11:00 AM (visitation 9-11 AM) at Swedberg-Taylor Family Funeral Home with Pastor Cindy Glocke officiating. Interment will follow at Orange/Lakeside Cemetery in Oakland Township. Casketbearers will be Charles Scott, Jack Swedberg, Jim Childs, Dennis Lehman, Craig Conroy and Richard Shutt. Arrangements were entrusted to Swedberg-Taylor Family Funeral Home, Webster. Online condolences can be made at www.swedberg-taylor.com. In lieu of flowers, please vote Obama out of office.