Russell Watson

Russell Lauren Watson, a retired United States Air Force Master Sergeant, a 23 year Air Force veteran, went to be with his Lord Friday, September 18, 2015 after suffering a massive stroke.Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 24, 2015 at Schnider Funeral Home and one hour prior to the funeral service which will be held Friday, September 25, 2015 at 3:00 p.m. at Community Bible Church in Fort Benton. Burial will follow at Riverside Cemetery in Fort Benton. Schnider Funeral Home is handling arrangements.Russ was born in Ladysmith, WI on February 8, 1940 to Earl and Helen Watson. Russ was the youngest of four children and was raised in Ladysmith. He earned an Associates Degree at Ashland, WI. On April 3, 1961 he joined the Air Force and was stationed at Fairchild AFB in Spokane, WA. He married Jeanette Ruby on December 8, 1962. Their son Jeff was born in March, 1964. Russ was transferred to Grand Forks AFB in ND in May 1965, then to Malmstrom AFB in August 1969. Jennifer was born the next month. Russ retired after serving 23 years in the Air Force and then retired from Civil Service working Rivet Mile maintaining Minuteman Missiles in February 2002.After losing his wife to cancer, he married Irene Lehman in January 1991.Russ loved fishing, especially for walleye, coyote hunting, and woodworking. He was a World War II history buff. He loved the Lord and served over the years as Elder, Sunday School teacher, song leader, and filling the pulpit for the pastor when needed. Russ loved his summer job of shuttling people, cars, and canoes for Adventure Bound Canoe in Fort Benton. He loved donating his time and energy by plowing snow and was quick to donate his time and expertise when helping others.Russ was always game for a good road trip and during his retirement years he and Irene traveled to 49 states, the last being their dream trip cruising the Hawaiian Islands.Russ is survived by his wife, Irene; daughter Jennifer (Todd); son Jeff; stepdaughters Wendy (Rob) and Debbie (Ben); grandchildren, Jordyn, Tabitha (Robbie), Jenna, Jessica, Matt and Jasmine; 3 great grandchildren; and brother Howard (Louise).He is preceded in death by his first wife, Jeanette; parents Earl and Helen Watson; brother Delos; and sister Delores.