Russel J. King, 86, Minneapolis went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, March 15, 2009.
Russ was born February 13, 1923 near Minneapolis to Ralph and Thelma (Burt) King. After graduation from Minneapolis High School, Russ served in the United States Air Force and Merchant Marines. He was united in marriage with Elsie "Peg" Griffin on October 21, 1955. Together they owned and operated Rid A Pest for many years.
He was a 32nd Degree Mason and was a member of the Midian, Mirza, and Isis Shrine Temples. He was the past commander of the Legion of Honor for all three temples. Russ was also a member of the Wichita Consistory, O.E.S. Minerva No. 146, Past President of the Ottawa County Shrine Club, and Past Master of Minneapolis Lodge No. 143 A.F.&A.M. Russ was also a member of the Community Bible Church.
Russ is survived by his wife Elsie "Peg" King; son Ralph Rowson both of the home; two grandsons; and four great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be at 2:00 P.M., Thursday at Wilson Shields Funeral Home, Minneapolis with the Rev. Doug Neumann officiating. Burial will be in Highland Cemetery, Minneapolis with honors by Isis Temple Legion of Honor and Minneapolis Lodge No. 143 A.F. & A.M. Visitation will be from 2 P.M. to 8 P.M. Wednesday at the funeral home where the family will receive friends from 5 P.M. to 6 P.M.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Shriner's Hospital for Children in St. Louis and may be left in care of the funeral home.