Russell Ruotsi

Obituary of Russell John Ruotsi Chassell Russell "Papa" John Ruotsi, 55, a resident of Chassell passed away Saturday evening April 5, 2008, at the Marquette General Hospital. He was born on August 22, 1952, in Hancock, a son of the late Charles Ruotsi and Elsie (Kinnunen) Ruotsi. As a child Russell resided in Arnheim and Chassell, he attended the Baraga Schools and Graduated from the Chassell High School. Mr. Ruotsi was a veteran having served with the United States Navy. On February 14, 1976, he was united in marriage to the former Cheri Austin and they recently celebrated 32 years of marriage. Russell had worked for the Upper Peninsula Power Company until 2003 when he retired due to ill health. In retirement Russell loved to spend his time fishing. Preceding him in death was his father and favorite father-in-law Don Austin. Surviving are: His wife Cheri Ruotsi His children: Shannon (Matt DesRochers), Heatther (Mike Hill), Mandie (Jason Wasik), Rachel (Jason Williams) His grandchildren: Austin, Kyle, David, Alan, Alexis, Elizabeth, Ryan, Kiara, Dawsen, and Savannah. His mother and step father: Elsie & Donald Kahila His Brothers & Sisters: Tom & Sherry Ruotsi, Mike & Sandi Ruotsi, Linda & Mark Ranta, Caroline Pleaugh, and Shirley & Ray Luty His step sisters: Karen Connell, Donna Heras, & Cathy Morris His favorite mother-in-law: Judy Austin Numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins Funeral services for Russell will be held 1 p.m. Wednesday April 9, 2008, at the Memorial Chapel Funeral Home of Chassell with Rev. Ted Kohel to officiate. Spring burial will be in the Chassell Cemetery. Friends may call on Wednesday April 9, 2008, at the Memorial Chapel Funeral Home from 11 a.m. until time of services where V.F.W. Post #6507 of Chassell will hold military rites at 12:50 p.m. To view Russells' obituary or to send condolences to the family please visit www.memorialchapel.net. Just remember Papa says: "Please don't cry for me, I'm gone fishing" To send flowers to the family of Russell Ruotsi, please visit Tribute Store