Russell A. Baird Jr.

HIGHLAND PARK, Ill. - Russell A. Baird Jr., 71, of Lindenhurst, passed away on Thursday, Jan. 9, 2014, at ManorCare Center in Highland Park.

He was born in Cresson, Pa., on Oct. 18, 1942, the son of the late Anne and Russell Baird Sr. He grew up in White Pine, Mich., and graduated from Ontonagon High School in 1960.

He married his wife Karen on May 26, 1973, and lived in Lindenhurst since 1981. He was also a member of Prince of Peace Catholic Church in Lake Villa. Russ retired from the U.S. Navy after 20 years of service, having served during the Vietnam conflict. Later, Russ worked as an engineer in the telecommunications industry until his retirement. After retiring, Russ enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and his extended family.

He is survived by his daughters, Anne Marie (Allen) Brown, of Woodstock, and Gretchen (Eric) Hogberg, of Gurnee; grandchildren, Paige and Ryan; siblings, Sally (Richard) Van Reese, of Minnesota, James (Kim) Baird, of Pennsylvania, and Richard (Kareen) Baird, of Tennessee; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and by his wife, Karen, on May 27, 1999.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. today, Thursday, Jan. 16, at Ringa Funeral Home, 122 S. Milwaukee Ave. (Route 83), Lake Villa IL 60046.

A funeral service will begin at 11 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 17, at the funeral home, with Rev. Richard Yanos officiating.

Burial at Ridgewood Cemetery in Des Plaines will be private.