Russell Paul Minehart

Russell Paul Minehart, 66, of Delton, MI, passed away into God’s graces on July 31, 2024. Russ was born on April 17, 1958 to Harry and Betty (Comerer) Minehart in Kalamazoo, MI. From a young age Russ had an insatiable curiosity about the world and it was clear he would be a lifelong learner. After graduating from Comstock High School in 1976, he landed his first job with Michigan Bell Telephone Co., as a phone operator, kicking off a 35+ year career in telecommunications until his retirement as a switching technician in 2013. He was a proud union member at CWA Local 4039.

While not working, you could find Russ at a Kalamazoo K-Wings hockey game where he was a former season ticket holder. He was also very active in woodworking, home DIY projects around the house, working on his cars, and volunteering to help coach his son’s sports teams.

Following his retirement, Russ could often be found playing pool for league nights with the American Pool Association around Kalamazoo. Russ also liked spending time spoiling his dog and cats, and enjoying the company of friends and family. He especially treasured his neighbors Bonnie and Jack, and his Texas family, Jan, Shannon, John Erick, John Michael, and Alaric.

Russ was a devoted father and loving friend. Russ was known for his humor and kindness; always providing helpful advice, always lending a hand when someone needed assistance, and always free with a good joke. His final outings, often going to a movie and grabbing lunch with his son, are now a cherished memory. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Russ is preceded in death by his parents, his brother John and wife Patty Minehart, and brother-in-law Tom Kasson. He is survived by many loving individuals, including his brother, Jim (Barbara) Minehart of Kalamazoo; his sister, Beverly Kasson of Portage; his son, Jeffrey Minehart of Chicago; his stepchildren, Joe Powell and Emily Powell; and nieces and nephew Kim, Scott, Amanda, Kelly, Morgan, Josh, Samantha, Mary, and Bobbi.

A Celebration of Life/Open House will be held 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Saturday, October 19th @ Kalamazoo Covenant Church (5708 E Main St, Kalamazoo, MI 49048).  Memorial contributions may be directed to the Autoimmune Association (www.autoimmune.org) or Lupus Foundation of America (www.lupus.org) in his honor. Arrangements by Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Cremation Preneed Care, Richland Chapel. Personal messages for the family and favorite memories of Russ may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.