Negaunee – Russell L. Allen Sr. of 256 W. Water, Negaunee, passed away Saturday, March 22, 2008 at Bell Hospital in Ishpeming.

Russell was born February 2, 1934 in Tinus, LA, the son of the late Edgar L. and Wilma (Redmond) Allen. He grew up in Louisiana, joined the United States Air Force, which took him to Kincheloe Air Force Base, here in the Upper Peninsula, where he met his wife of the past 52 years, Lois Strom. Following his discharge from the armed services he moved to this area, working as a truck driver for the Cleveland Cliffs Iron Co., at the Mather B and Empire Mines, retiring in 1996, following 30 years and 8 months with the Co. Russell enjoyed camping at the various campgrounds in the U.P., along with hunting and fishing. He was a member of the Lake Superior CB Club.

Survivors include his wife Lois Allen of Neguanee, two children: Carl (Colleen) Allen of Negaunee, MI, and Mary Holmes of Ishpeming, daughter-in-law Pamela Allen of Ishpeming, sisters: Helen, Dobie, Dottie, Paullie, and Gracie, brothers: Edward and Edward Jr. all of Louisiana, 10 Grandchildren: Steven Schaffer, Heather (Matthew) Larson, Chris (Leslie) Schaffer, Derrick & Jason Allen, Michelle Allen, Nick & Amber Holmes, Travis & Courtney Allen, 4 great grandchildren: Tyler Larson, Ciara Schaffer, James and Desirae Roark along with several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, a son Russell Allen Jr. and a daughter Desiree Schaffer.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, March 27, 2008 at the Bjork & Zhulkie Funeral Home at 6:00PM with Deacon Steve Schaffer to officiate. The family will greet friends and relatives from 4:00PM until the time of service at 6:00PM on Thursday at the Bjork & Zhulkie Funeral Home. Inurnment will take place at the Negaunee Cemetery.