Russell David Trevarthen

BESSEMER, Mich. - Russell David Trevarthen, 82, of Bessemer, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 19, 2022, with his loving family by his side.

Russell was born on July 22, 1939, in Ramsay, a son of Fredrick and Lila (Johnson) Trevarthen. He attended Ramsay School and graduated from A.D. Johnston High School in Bessemer, in 1957.

Russell served his country in the U.S. Navy in 1957, for a short period and was honorably discharged due to a physical injury.

Russell drove a cab in Chicago, for a short period. He returned home and worked at the Ramsay Pump Station as a pump operator. For many years, Russell worked for Bessemer Township as the township clerk. He volunteered for many years as a firefighter for the Bessemer Township Fire Department. He worked at the Bessemer Plywood Plant where he retired.

On June 3, 1977, Russell married Geri Berglund. They made their home in Anvil Location, Bessemer Township, where together they raised their two daughters, Mary and Annie, who he loved with all his heart.

Russell is survived by Geri (Berglund) Trevarthen; his two daughters, Mary (Cory) Aspinwall and Annie (Cory) Wainio; his five grandchildren, who he loved to the moon and back, Trey, Kyrsten, CJay, Cory Jr. and Bentley; his siblings, Jane (Trevarthen) Mahowald, Shirley (Trevarthen) Crenna, Fred "Fritzy" Trevarthen and Donald (JoAnne) Trevarthen; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Russell loved the outdoors. He spent a lot of time deer hunting and enjoyed camping at Lake Superior and swimming at the Ramsay Park in his younger years.

Russell's passion was music. He loved to sing, play his guitar and always enjoyed a live band. He could make anyone smile when he'd sing his favorite songs. One of his favorites was "Oh, Pretty Woman," by Roy Orbison. Russell touched many lives through his music and he enjoyed giving guitar lessons to his family and friends.

Russell was a huge Green Bay Packer fan and would never miss a game. He had the opportunity to go to Lambeau Field and see them play.

Russell was a very patriotic man and his favorite holiday was the Fourth of July. He always made sure to wear and display the American flag proudly.

He loved to grill and cook for his family. Some of his favorite things to make were chili, spaghetti and grilled chicken.

Russell loved dogs. He had several dogs as pets throughout his life and he really loved his last dog, Cookie. Russell loved his family and cherished his two daughters and grandchildren. He was so proud of them.

Russell will be missed by all who knew him and loved him.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 30, at 11 a.m., preceded by visitation at 10 a.m., at the Lakeside Memorial Chapel, 806 Putnam St., in Wakefield, with the Rev. Dominic Agyapong officiating.

A celebration of Russell's life will take place at the Ramsay Park pavilion.

His final resting place will be at the Hillcrest Cemetery in Bessemer, at a later date in August with his family in attendance.

The family wishes to express their gratitude to the Gogebic Medical Care Facility in Wakefield, and Aspirus for his care.

Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, is assisting the family with their arrangements. Condolences may be expressed online at lakesidememorialchapel.com.