Russell Workman's Obituary
Russell Workman, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2025, in Tallmadge, Ohio, at the age of 79. Born on March 22, 1946, in Logan, West Virginia, Russell was the son of the late Lenvil and Della (Hall) Workman.
On March 19, 1966 Russell met the love of his life Peggy (Mumm) at a USO dance. They married on August 10, 1968 and over a span of 56 years, together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and the joyous bustle of a growing family. Their union was blessed with five children: Michelle Lancaster (Michael), Michael (Rebel) Workman, Janet Davis (Matthew), John Workman, and Steven Workman (fiancee Megan Loske). Russell's legacy further flourished with the birth of his grandchildren, Heather Weber, Michael Lancaster, Gerald & Alex Jerin, Samantha & Matthew Davis, Emmi & Levi Workman, Gabriel & Abigail Heil, and his great-granddaughter, Evelyn Hartung.
In 1963, Russell answered the call of duty and served in the U.S. Air Force, a testament to his unwavering patriotism and commitment to his nation. After his military service, Russell embarked on a 42-year career as a dedicated truck driver, a role that took him across the country's highways, connecting people and places with the goods they needed.
Russell's commitment to service extended beyond his professional life as he served as an EMT and Fire Medic with the Mantua Shalersville Fire Department for 27 years. His dedication to honoring his fellow veterans was evident in the years he spent presenting Military Funeral Honors. A respected member of Mantua American Legion Post 193, Russell served as Sergeant at Arms, and was a part of the Mantua Search and Recovery Dive Team.
Always eager to give back, Russell took joy in participating in the Trucker Buddy program with the Tuslaw Elementary School students in Massillon, Ohio, and leading the Fire Explorers program. His love for his community was also evident in the annual "Experimental" pig roast he hosted, an event that became a cherished tradition and a testament to his generous spirit.
Russell was a long-time member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Mantua. He was in charge of the Roller Skating events, was a member of the Knights of Columbus, and along with his wife Peg, they served as Eucharistic Ministers, helped present the Pre Cana classes for engaged couples seeking the sacrament of marriage and worked the Cake Booth at the Ox Roast Festival.
Russell shared his passion for the outdoors with his family. He spent 11 winters soaking up the sun in Zephyrhills, Florida, and for 50 years, he treasured family vacations at Lake of the Ozarks. There, he created countless memories, tubing and teaching all of his family members to waterski, always with a smile and a word of encouragement.
Russell was a man who always offered good advice and had a heart that was as open as the endless roads he traveled. His siblings, Lucy Meade (Muncy), Molly Johnston (Rufus), Carlos Workman (Judy), Mary Gould (Tim), and the memories of the late Alice Clay (Frank), the late Ann Tomblin (Sonny), and the late Clarence Workman, will hold dear the laughter and love that Russell brought into their lives.
Russell Workman's legacy is one of unwavering love, service, and the joy he brought to every life he touched. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered as a beacon of light in the lives of his beloved family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the entire staff at Heather Knoll Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Tallmadge for the exceptional and compassionate care that they provided to Russell and his family.
Friends may gather for visitation at Green Funeral Care, 4668 Pioneer Trail, Mantua, on Thursday, July 24, 2025 from 3-8 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, July 25, 2025 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Mantua, at 11 a.m. (PLEASE MEET AT CHURCH). Russell will be laid to rest at Riverside Cemetery, Shalersville Twp., with Military Honors presented by the U.S. Air Force, assisted by the Mantua American Legion Post 193.
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