Russell Snowden

The world suffered a great loss Sept. 13, 2002, when Russell E. Snowden, one of the finest men ever to grace the face of this earth, passed away at Careage of Whidbey in Coupeville.

Russell was born Jan. 22, 1922, in Moscow, Idaho, to Wilton and Ina Snowden. Russell grew up in Clarkston and subsequently enlisted in the United States Navy in December 1940. He served honorably for 29 years before his retirement in the late 1960s. Russell was well-decorated for his service to our country, receiving the American Defense Service Medal and the World War II Victory Medal. The Good Conduct Medal was also awarded to Russell five times for his outstanding service. He was proud to serve his country.

After Russell’s retirement from the United States Navy he became a carpenter by trade and took great pride in his work, building many things, including the family home. He not only did this as a job but also as a hobby. He enjoyed working in the yard and growing his garden. For the last six years of his life he lived with his only daughter Cathy and his grandson Justin where they all cared for each other; there will be a great void in the family home by his passing.

Russell was a loyal member of the Fleet Reserve Association, Branch No. 97 where he cared for the grounds and other duties as were need. He was a loyal shipmate.

Russell is survived by his only child, Cathy Annette Snowden of Oak Harbor, her two children, Russell’s grandchildren, Desiree Anne Pantoja, her husband Salvador Pantoja of Mount Vernon and Justin Ryan Wipf of Oak Harbor. He is also survived by the light of life, his two great-grandchildren, Ariel Hannah Pantoja and Britnee Analee Pantoja of Mount Vernon. Britnee was Russell’s special gift as she was born on his 78th birthday. Russell is also survived by his four step-children, Beth Prescott, Joan Herrick and husband Paul, Bob Prescott and David Prescott, granddaughter Lauren Hammond and grandson Alex Prescott. He has one surviving brother and sister-in-law, Ron and Arlene Snowden of Ritzville, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Russell was preceded in death by his wife Margaret in 1973, second wife Joanne in 1987, his sister Ethel in 1992, sister Vivian in 1997 and his brother Dick in 1998.

The family would also like acknowledge three very special people who are not only friends but part of the family, Darv and Marci Gerdes who have given so unselfishly of themselves to assist, care and love Russell in his final months. They will always have a special place in the hearts of Russell’s family and to our wonderful neighbor Caron Bartlett for her love, kindness and support during this very difficult time. She is truly a gift to our family.

Graveside services for family and close friends will be held at Fern Hill Cemetery in Anacortes Friday, Sept. 20 at 1 p.m. A celebration of Russell’s life was held at the Fleet Reserve Association, 311 SE 8th Ave., Oak Harbor, Friday, Sept. 20, at 3 p.m.

Memorials may be made in Russell’s name to the Fleet Reserve Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 797, Oak Harbor, WA 98277. Arrangements have been entrusted to Burley Funeral Chapel.