Kenneth M. Russell, 76, of Dexter, Kansas, passed away Monday morning, December 25, 2017 at Presbyterian Manor in Arkansas City.

Born March 6, 1941 in Wichita, Kansas, he was the son of Merle and Dorothy (Scott) Russell. He was raised and received his education in Belle Plaine, graduating from Belle Plaine High School in 1958. After high school, he joined the United States Navy in 1959 and proudly served his country until his honorable discharge in 1965. Upon his return to Belle Plaine, he went to work for Cessna Aircraft.

He was united in marriage to Leatha Ann Thein on September 24, 1965 in Belle Plaine. The couple made their home in Arkansas City. In 1962, Kenny began working as an airline mechanic at General Electric in Arkansas City. He remained at GE for over 40 years retiring in 2002. In 1996, he and Leatha moved to a farm on Grouse Creek Road. There, they enjoyed taking care of their animals and grandkids. Leatha preceded him in death on July 25, 2010. In addition to being an avid reader, Kenny enjoyed hunting, fishing and was a western historian.

His family includes:
His son: Troy Russell and wife, Sherri of Chanute;
His daughter: Michelle Russell of Winfield;
His sisters: Lettye Johnston of Belle Plaine; Carol Williamson of Gilmer, TX; Annette Rutherford of North San Juan, CA;
His grandchildren: Seth Russell of Chanute, Allison Curtin and husband, Will of Ogden, Aaron Phouthavong of Winfield and Tristan Phouthavong of Winfield; and
His great granddaughter: Sadie Curtin.

In addition to his parents and wife, Kenny was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Sadie Ann Russell and two sisters, Marilyn Richardson and Jeanette Russell.

Memorial services will be held Wednesday, January 3, 2018 at 2:00 P.M. at Miles Funeral Service in Winfield. Friends may call at the funeral home on Tuesday, January 2, from 5 to 7. The family will greet visitors during this time.

A memorial has been established in Kenny's name for the Alzheimer's Association. Contributions may be made through the funeral home.