Russell David Mahan, 94, of New Athens, IL; born December 23, 1918 in Blair, IL; passed away on Tuesday, November 12, 2013 at the Red Bud Regional Hospital in Red Bud, IL.
Mr. Mahan was a retired farmer. He also retired after more than 20 years from Snyder-General Air Conditioning in Red Bud, IL. He was a member of St. John Lutheran Church in Baldwin, IL. Russell enjoyed raising feeder calves and cutting firewood in his spare time. He also felt very strongly about the importance of donating blood and never missed a blood drive, donating close to 20 gallons.
He was preceded in death by his parents – David and Grace, nee Nitzsche, Mahan. His wife Elvera, nee Junge, Mahan whom he married on June 26, 1943 and who passed away on September 23, 2012. One daughter – Diane Zinkhon. One sister – Irene Austin
He is survived by one son – Brian (Carol) Mahan of New Athens, IL. His grandchildren – Catherine (Shane) Matsumoto; David (Amy) Zinkhon; Rachel (James Gregory) Mahan; Emily (Caleb) Riggs. His great-grandchildren – Clara, Dharma, Zuzu, Grace, Elizabeth.
Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society in memory of his daughter Diane.
Visitation: Friends may call at Heil-Schuessler Funeral Home in New Athens, IL on Friday, November 15, 2013 from 6:00pm to 8:00pm and at St. John Lutheran Church in Baldwin, IL on Saturday, November 16, 2013 from 10:00am to 11:00am.
Funeral: services will be held at St. John Lutheran Church in Baldwin, IL on Saturday, November 16, 2013 at 11:00am with Pastor John Taggatz officiating.
Burial: Interment will be held at St. John Lutheran Cemetery in Baldwin, IL.
Heil-Schuessler Funeral Home in New Athens, IL is in charge of arrangements.
At this time of sorrow, remember all the good memories you had with him and be proud. I will remember the times he hosted Brian’s friends at his home with hay rides, snow sledding, birthdays, – always welcoming us into their home. May you find that the one you loved is still living in your hearts forever. Quote to share: “A life well lived cannot be diminished by death. The beauty, guidance, and inspiration it gave us will shine as brightly as ever.” with sympathy, Diane (Mueller) Boschert
Posted by: Diane Boschert – New Athens, IL – friend Nov 14, 2013
There are so many fond memories I have of him! Being the oldest of all of the nieces and nephews, I was fortunate to have more years to enjoy his sense of humor, his stories, and the corn he grew many years. But most of all, he was my best dance partner at dances in the area, from the waltz and polka to the swing! He loved to dance and was very good! I will miss my chats with him when I visit Illinois.
Posted by: Carolyn Tillock McCabe – Nashville,, TN – Niece Nov 14, 2013
He gave me some of the first cans of my beer can collection! He was always interested in what I was doing and was a genuine person.
Posted by: Dale Giannatasio – Oak Island, NC – Goddaughter Nov 14, 2013
I loved his quirky humor. Most of his jokes were pretty corny but I laughed while I groaned. When he’s start a story, I’d often wonder , “Is this real or is he pulling my leg?’ Truth is, I was sort of disappointed when it WAS real.
Posted by: Susan Peters – Florence, SC – neice Nov 14, 2013
Brian, Sorry to hear about the passing of your dad. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Ron Schneider
Posted by: Ron Schneider – Oconomowoc, WI Nov 15, 2013
Dear Brian,
We will be unable to be at any of the services for your dad. We were so sorry of hear of his passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Our sincere sympathy. Jerry and Kathryn
Posted by: Jerry and Kathryn Mines – Carlyle, IL – member of the Mahan family Nov 15, 2013
Have so many good memories of this man and his family. Mr. and Mrs. Mahan bought our home on Baldwin Road many years ago. Always such a pleasant man with a sweet smile. Praying for Brian and the family, that God will give them peace and comfort during this trying time.
Posted by: Julia (Ballard) and Merrell Crumley – San Angelo, TX – Friend Nov 16, 2013
Brian and family, Sorry we were unable to attend the wake and express our sincere sympathy in person. Bob and your dad frequently spoke about raising cattle. Russell was one of Bob’s regular customers for feeder calves. Bob always enjoyed his company. Bob had visited Russell early this fall at the nursing home and had a good conversation. Thinking of you and your family. Sincerely, Bob and Kathy Schmidt
Posted by: Bob and kathy schmidt – Evansville, IL – friends Dec 01, 2013