Russell Runnels

Russell W. Runnels, 89, of Wilmington, Ohio passed away Monday, December 31, 2012. His wife Ruby Runnels preceded him in death on August 7, 1998. He was born in Hammond, IN on August 1, 1923, the son of the late Clarence Henry and Lillian Marie Runnels.

He served in the Pacific with the U. S. Navy during WWII. He graduated from Wilmington College with multiple science degrees. He is retired from WPAFB where he worked in the Electronics Technology Division as a physicist. While working there he pioneered several semi-conductor technologies and obtained several patents. He was an avid pilot and patented an anti-collision warning system. He was a member of Faith Lutheran Church.

He is survived by his children, Patricia Purtee, Robert (Jane) Runnels, Richard (Lorrie) Runnels, and Barb (Mark) Irwin. He is also survived by his grandchildren Sara and Sierra Purtee, Ryan Runnels, Ben and Erin Runnels, and Jennifer (Justin) Thatcher and Jeremy Irwin. He also has two great-grandchildren, Ryan Purtee and Connor Thatcher. He is also survived by his special friends Wanda Hodson and Leon Purtee.

At the request of Russ and his family, there will be no funeral services. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Cornerstone Hospice, 2445 Lane Park Road, Tavares, FL  32778.

The Fisher-Edgington Funeral Home, Wilmington, is assisting the family with arrangements. To offer online condolences please visit www.edgingtonfuneralhomes.com.

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