Russell Overly
Russell F. Overly, 94, of Polson formerly Edmonds, Washington, passed away Monday, March 30, 2009 at St. Joseph Hospital of Natural causes. Born April of 1914 in Montrose, Colorado, Mr. Overly was a WW II veteran and tail gunner in B-17 bombers. His adult career was spent in the electrical business in Washington State. In his younger days he was a daring private pilot. In his 50’s his interests turned to sailing the waters of Puget Sound. He was a competitor in yachting races and active member of Edmonds Yacht Club, along with his wife, Ida. After his sailing days he became a golfer, then an armchair enthusiast of baseball and avid lover of dogs. After living in Edmonds since 1960, Mr. And Mrs. Overly moved to Las Vegas in 2003 to be near his oldest daughter and husband. After the death of his wife of 55 years in 2005, he relocated to Polson’s St. Joseph Retirement Community to live near his youngest daughter and husband. St. Joseph provided a comfortable and caring environment for his final years. Mr. Overly is surivived by his daughter, Kathleen (Richard) Lenahan of Battle Ground, Washington, his daughter Candyce (Dale) Brevik of Polson, granddaughter and great grandson Melissa (Rob) and Spencer Gracely of Tigard, Oregon, grandson Joseph (Stephanie) of Las Vegas, Nevada, step granddaughters Karistan (Brett) Sproull and Kimberly Brevik (David Hernandez-Angeles) of Missoula. Grogan Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Russell’s life will be celebrated privately in Polson, and this summer in Battle Ground. Condolences to the family at www.groganfuneralhome.com
I’ll miss visiting with Russell at St. Joe’s. He always had a smile and something nice to say to us. He will be missed. Our sympathy to his family.
To Russell’s family,
I talked with Russell many times as I went to St. Joe’s to see my mother. He always had a smile and a twinkle in his eye. I am so sorry for your loss.
Teri Warford
Dear Family,
I don’t know you but I knew Russell. My mom also lived at St. Joe’s until she passed away February 4th. Russell was a favorite of mine – we always visited and he talked about his little dog. I brought my dog to see him several times – he just loved her and loved to sit and pet her especially after his little dog was gone. He was a dear sweet man – always with a smile and a twinkle in his eye. He had a great sense of humor and now, reading about his life before I knew him, I can see him being a “daring pilot” – because he seemed to enjoy life always. My mom used to say that Russell was always smiling and nice to her as well. My thoughts and prayers are with you all as you mourn the loss of Russell but celebrate his life and liveliness. He will be missed by many.
Richard spoke with one of Russ’s daughters when he passed away, as she wanted to let his mother, Milly, know of his passing, which was sad news to tell her.
Right now, I am trying to return the courtesy, as Milly passed away last Friday, July 24 (age 97 last April). Russel was the last of the living friends that she shared with her husband, Jim, and I wanted to let Russ’s family to know of Milly’s passing.
I will try to contact them through an address finding resource, but this is in case I am not successful.
Best regards,
Sherrill Dietz