Russell Koons

Russell Hubert Koons, age 95, passed away on November 5. He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Elaine Louise (Aldrin) Koons. He was preceded in death by his daughter-in-law Mary Koons. Also surviving are his three children, Douglas Koons, Dennis (Linda) Koons, Darlene (Carl) Cress, six grandchildren, Douglas (Heather) Koons, Daniel Koons, Jacqueline (Adam) Billingsley, Kevin (Veronica) Koons, Christopher (Tiffany) Cress, Brian (Kate) Koons and thirteen great-grandchildren, Ella, Eric, Evelyn and Ethan Koons; Reece, Cora, Molly and Adrienne Billingsley; Audra and Mateo Koons; Ashlyn and Colton Cress; and Lincoln Koons. Also, surviving are two sisters Garnet and Mavis and many nieces and nephews. Russ was born in Rives Junction, Michigan on December 7, 1924 to Hubert Charles Koons and Julia Octavia (Jacobs) Koons. He was the second of five children and the only son. Upon his graduation from High School, he enlisted in the Army and was stationed in Europe during World War II. After serving his country, Russ returned home to complete his education at Michigan State University where he met his wife Elaine and obtained a Bachelor’s degree in education. Later he would pursue his Masters from the University of Michigan and study Oceanography at Washington State. His teaching career spanned over 25 years, mostly teaching science and math to junior high students in Houghton Lake, Godwin Public Schools in Grand Rapids and Maple Valley Schools in Nashville. Russ loved to travel with Elaine and managed to visit every State and numerous countries. He was noted for his sense of humor, can do attitude and practical jokes. More than anything Russ was known for always being willing to help someone in need, whether building a home for family, helping a friend with a project, or just giving of his time. A Celebration of his Life is anticipated next year. In lieu of flowers, the family asks you share your stories and pictures at memories.grcremation.com. And, when an opportunity arises, you give of your time to someone in need and do it in remembrance of Russ; a great man, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend to many.