Russell Vern VanNortwick, Jr.

Russell Verne VanNortwick, Jr., 72, of Battle Creek, died March 7, 2023.  Russell was born May 13, 1950 in Battle Creek to Russell Verne VanNortwick, Sr. and Jimmie Ruth (McJunkin) VanNortwick.  After high school he quickly joined the (ANG) Michigan Air National Guard and spent his career serving, retiring in April 2004. 

Russell enjoyed reading, bowling, woodworking, golfing, working in his yard and spending time with his Labradors. He was a booster and avid supporter of Lakeview Baseball.  He had a passion for his family history/ancestry, he spent many hours collecting information.   In August 2015 he became a member of the Sons of the American Revolution.  He was involved Community service and often helped to clean up cemeteries and put out flags and wreaths.  In his younger years he became an Eagle Scout.  

Russell married the former Sandra “Sandie” Hope on August 3, 1991, who survives. He is also survived by his two sons, Jerrad and Jordan VanNortwick; two sisters, Wetona (Mike) Schumacher and Katrinka Reel; two brothers, Jon (Ruth) VanNortwick and Jeff VanNortwick and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Mike Richey. 

Visitation will be Sunday, March 12, 2023 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care, where funeral services to celebrate Russell’s life will be 10:00 a.m., Monday, March 13th.  Interment with full military honors will follow at Fort Custer National Cemetery.  Memorial donations may be made to Gift of Life Michigan, 3861 Research Park Dr., Ann Arbor, MI 48108 .  Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.