Russell L. Farnquist's Obituary
Russell L. Farnquist, age 88, passed away early Monday morning, May 23, 2011 following a brief illness. He was born in Muskegon on July 22, 1922, the eldest of six children to William E. and Dorothy M. (Manchesky) Farnquist. Prior to his retirement in 1977, Mr. Farnquist was employed as a machinist for over 30 yrs. at Muskegon Piston Ring. In 1960, he married the former Betty Marie Bendus and she preceded him in death in 2001. Russ was a talented artist and singer. He enjoyed drawing characters “in particular, Pop-Eye” to the delight of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and in earlier years, was a member of a barbershop quartet. Mr. Farnquist is survived by: two daughters, Debra (Kenneth) Sampsell of Lawton, MI and Cindy (Rick) Semelbauer of Muskegon; 7 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; five brothers, Jack (Betty) Farnquist in Pennsylvania, Lyle and Shirley of Muskegon, Bill and Jackie of Muskegon, Ron and Sue of Grand Haven and Don Farnquist of Muskegon; four step-children, Tena (Floyd) Ryan, Terri (Mark) Williams, John (Marsha) Ake and William Ake; and many step-grandchildren and great grandchildren. In accordance to Mr. Farnquist’s wishes, he will be cremated and no public services held. For those desiring an expression of sympathy, please consider the Noah Project.
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