In the cold full moonlit early morning hours of November 29, 2020, Skip Russell, 74, of Nickerson, Kansas died in his sleep at home.

Born a baby boomer on September 26, 1946 in Dodge City, Kansas to Jesse W. Jr., and Ethel Genevieve Russell Vest.  He was the youngest of four in a family of four boys.  Skip was affiliated with the Cimarron Kansas First Christian Church at an early age. He was preceded in death by his parents and step father, Ed Vest.

Skip attended school at Dodge City graduating high school there in 1964.  He enjoyed playing alto sax in high school band.  Further education was obtained at Fort Hays State University where he pledged Alpha Lambda Fraternity.  He lived with his brother and family some of the time where he babysat his 2 nieces and nephew, Crawford preceded him in death.

Skip and Margaret ( Maggie ) Cox of Plains, Kansas, eloped to Clayton, New Mexico in October 1966, accompanied by his brother Jim and wife Marilyn, a long trip but the deed was done.  Jim preceded him, Marilyn survives.  Skip and Maggie celebrated their 54th wedding anniversary this year.

Richard, his brother gave him lots of mechanical knowledge.  Skip was proud of Dicks athletic ability and work ethic supporting the family after their fathers death.  Together they went deer hunting at Clark State lake until Skip's health could not support this activity.  Dick survives of Dodge City, Kansas.

Skip was sworn into the United States Navy December 1966 but a nasty car-motorcycle accident in April 1967 on Main Street in Plains, Kansas three days before he was to leave for training ended the dream and he was Honorably Discharged in December 1968.

The young couple remained in Plains, Kansas for him to recuperate and Maggie to finish high school.  Dallas and Barbara Cox ( Maggie's parents) along with sisters-in-law Theresa, Cindy, and Shirley, spoiled him and helped take care of him.  Skip is preceded by all except, Cindy who lives in Missouri.

Skip spent much of his time in Cimarron while younger.  His family members lived there. His partners in crime were Pete Thomas and cousins Pep and Doug.  Many memories were made back then that are still ruminated over.  Pete and Doug survives as his longtime friends.

Moving to Hutchinson, Kansas in 1969, Skip went to work at Rainbo Bakery for many years, he was then elected Business Agent for BC&T, Local 245 where he served members until his retirement in November 1999.

One of the early students he became an EMT, working on Nickersons Volunteer Services.  The next class opening, he became a Paramedic and Director of Nickerson EMS for 29 years.  He retired due to his health and became a city council member for 8 years.  When he was younger he was a volunteer fireman for Nickerson.

With his friend Larry, the " Larry and Skip Coffee and Woodshop" was founded.  Making beautiful wood creations, sharing lots of coffee and welcomed all to visit and learn.  Larry preceded him in death.

Skip enjoyed a 40 year friendship with Bruce, meeting on EMS.  Bruce shared his savvy advice and regular jokes.  His barber for 40 years, Bruce continues to work in Reno County.

Butch, the tinkerer solved metal problems, shared coffee and friendship.  He survives.

Of all his friends and friendships, he saved the best and most for his family from the very beginning.  he was a hands on dad with time to share and guide, Gerri Anne and Shawn, their dad always being there for them.  From attending school programs and activities and advice, always a close relationship.  Traveling to Shawns grade school wrestling club meets, track meets and USA kids track and field meets were always exciting times for the family.  In later years those activities turned to Harley rides and trips, and season hockey tickets.  Skip's dog Prissey often traveled with him and after her death, Joey took up the watch.

Skip felt overly blessed to have four granddaughters who were more important to him than anything else.  Poppie to his girls' he was a father figure when the need arose, but with the soft touch of Poppie.

Kayla will always remember the trips and vacations they took together.  Being the first grandchild and being almost eight years older than the next child, she had more time and adventures.  Kayla was given to Zach in marriage by her Poppie.  Together Zach and Kayla gave him 3 great grands, identical beautiful twin girls Amelia and Oliva and Ivan Roe.  Zach, the son-in-law we never had filled the position significantly.  Hopefully Zach will continue to enjoy the woodshop tools, to continue his many interests and talents.

Poppie being a paramedic was in attendance at Kenda's unplanned home birth thou he wasn't much help on that run.  A calming factor in her younger years, Kenda and Evan will present their new daughter in April 2021.

Jewel will carry Poppie's love and concern onward.  The scary and creepy movies they enjoyed together and friends she made at the cafe during weekday coffee stops.

Kyra continues to hear stories of her hockey game attendance with Poppie starting at the age of 18 months, other people carried in blankets, warmers and thermos'.  Poppie carted in his oxygen tank and a diaper bag, Kyra put away a lot of dip 'n' dots and spilled many of uncles beers tripping over them.

We, his family rejoice with him being in our lives.  He was truly " The Wind Beneath Our Wings".

Cremation has taken place.

In lieu of flowers and food, please consider making a donation to Nickerson United Methodist Church, 8200 Riverton Road, Nickerson, Kansas 67561 for Christmas food baskets or you local Humane Society.

A special Thank You to Ronnie for always being there for us, Treva and Gary, and the staff of Daveta Dialysis, Dr. A. Davidson, friend and physician and Toni.

A celebration of life for Skip Russell will be held at the Nickerson Community Building, 11 North Nickerson Street, Nickerson, Kansas from Noon to 3:00 p.m. on July 18, 2021.  This will be a casual come and go time to share memories and visit with family.  Please join us in remembering a life of love and service to his family, friends, and community.  Light refreshments will be served.  There will be a book to record favorite stories.  This book will also be available at the Nickerson City Office from July 12th  through the 16th.

Burial will take place at Wild Mead Cemetery, Nickerson, Kansas.