Russell E. Putnam, Jr., 82, of Superior died Thursday, January 10, 2013 as a result of an auto accident in Superior.

Russell was born in Superior to Russell and Delia (Kotter) Putnam on March 3, 1930.

Russell served his country in the National Guard.

His work history includes 23 years at U.S. Steel and later being a self-employed bricklayer with his best friend, Jack Gallagher.

He enjoyed attending his grandchildren's sporting events, was an avid woodworker, liked gardening and anything that had to do with the outdoors. Russell also had a love for dogs.

He is survived by his wife, Irene "Pat"; his children, Pam (Tom) Jacobson of Overland Park, Kan., Leroy "Lee" (Rich Buccella) Putnam of Boston, Mass., Shelby (Donald) Hobson of Superior and Jackie (Brian) Putnam-Kmecik of Superior; his grandchildren, Craig Jacobson, Dustin and Garrett Hobson, Jeffrey (Ashley) Kmecik and Mackenzie, Kobie and Trevor Kmecik; a great-granddaughter, Peydin Jacobson; a future great-granddaughter, Gracey Kmecik; and sisters, Fran (Don) McGinnis of Prescott, Wis., and Delores Parzych of Superior, and nieces, nephews and cousins.

Funeral service will be held on Friday at 11:00 a.m. in Downs Funeral Home, corner of 19th & Ogden, with Rev. Joel Certa-Werner officiating. Visitation will be from 5-8:00 p.m. on Thursday in the funeral home. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Alex Kotter, Tom and Craig Jacobson, Jeff and Mackenzie Kmecik, Dustin and Garrett Hobson and Jack Gallagher.

Honorary pallbearers will be Elwood Hoffmockel, Dwaine Erickson, Darin Aho, Shawn Parzych, Tim Kotter and Randy Porter.

The family wishes to extend a "special thank you" to Craig Banker and his Gold Cross crew and also to the Superior Police and Fire Departments for their professional response.