Ray L. Russell

Ray L. Russell was born in Des Moines, Iowa on November 19, 1931 and passed away in Milwaukee, on June 6, 2021. Ray is survived by son Robin L. Russell and wife Beverley of West Allis, daughter Carrie S. Russell of Washington, DC, grandson Ryan J. Russell of Slinger, Wisconsin, brother Robert C. Russell of Avon Lake, Iowa, nephew Robert Russell II of Des Moines, also friends Bob and JoAnn Cascioli, Gene Kimball, Lisa Pierce, Jim Pousha, Mary Wagner, and many others.

Ray was in the Air Force during the Korean War from 1951-1955. When he returned from the Air Force, he worked for Employers Mutual Casualty (EMC). He was the first insurance auditor hired by EMC after EMC decided to use their own employees as insurance auditors rather than independent auditors. Ray was transferred to the Milwaukee Branch Office in 1957. In 1964, he was promoted to field supervisor. Ray was a former President and co-founder of the Insurance Auditors Club. Ray was also President of the Wisconsin 1752 Club. He was the Professional Insurance Agents’ Company Person of the Year in 1995. He worked for EMC for 40 years.

Ray was a very accomplished golfer. He learned the game of golf as a caddy at the Wakonda Country Club in Des Moines. Ray was the number two honor caddy. He was the caddy for several scratch golfers including Louise Suggs, a co-founder of the LPGA. While in high school, he played in the Iowa High School State Championship. Ray was a seven handicap and won the Milwaukee County Public Links Tournament at Whitnall Park. Ray was proud of his 71 score in a match medal tournament held there. He had 13 eagles and one hole-in-one, the first made at that hole.

Ray was married to Theda L. Russell (Miller) who he met in high school. Theda passed away July 17, 2010. Theda was Ray’s pride and joy. She brought many people to our Lord Jesus including Ray and their son.

Visitation will be held at Layton Avenue Baptist Church, 9600 West Layton Avenue on Monday, June 14, 2021, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM. Funeral Service at 5:00 PM. Burial will be private at Good Hope Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Layton Avenue Baptist Church or to Evans Scholars Foundation, 2501 Patriot Boulevard, Glenview, IL 60026-8022.