Obituary of Russell Gramme

Russell “Russ” Gramme, age 85, passed away peacefully on June 9, 2023, at Aguilera Home assisted living in Tucson, Arizona.

Left to honor and remember Russ’ love and devotion are his affectionate daughter Michelle (Brian) Nemetz, cherished grandson Trevor Nemetz, little bro Gordy (Lynn) Gramme, and little sis Mary Ann Goodin. He is preceded in death by his loving wife Kathy, baby angels Russell Jr. and Robert, and parents Louis and Mary Gramme.

Russ was born on May 12, 1938, in Aurora, Illinois. He married Kathy on June 4, 1966. They relocated to Tucson in 1969 seeking a warmer, drier climate for her health. He was a straight-faced joker who would say that he was a Tonsorial Artist (barber/hair stylist) by trade. He was modest, so he’d never admit that he had loyal clientele because he was a skilled craftsman and excellent listener. His 46-year career began in 1957 in Naperville, IL; he retired in 2003 in Tucson. Although younger Russ had layers of thick, wavy, black hair, he still had a headful of handsome salt and pepper when he went to Heaven to be with his Lord and Kathy and all his Angel family and friends.

Russ was a diehard apple lover. At an early age he climbed then sat in his neighbor’s tree salting and eating unripe, green apples. His motto was: “an apple a day keeps the doctor away”, so he devoured each one leaving only stem and seeds! Fittingly, his last meal was applesauce. “14 trillion percent correct!” ~Russ, everyday

Russ loved American cars, drag racing, fishing, boating, and archery. He loved to work with his hands, so gardening, tinkering, handyman projects, and woodworking were favorite pastimes. He beamed with pride after handcrafting a wooden, rocking, baby bassinette for the apple of his eye, Trevor! “Quality comes from the heart and pride in your work!” ~Russ, 8/22/22

Russ was a devout Catholic and founding member of St. Joseph’s Church Knights of Columbus Council #8813 where he faithfully served the Lord. He was well known for cooking fluffy pancakes and instrumental in establishing a memorial for the innocent victims of abortion, a legacy that still stands today.

Russ unashamedly gave passionate testimonials about why you “should” buy B.A. Mason’s shoes, wear support socks, use Weight Watchers, eat local honey, drink apple cider vinegar, and long before it was all the rage, make cold brew coffee using a Toddy maker, just to name a few. “Excellante!” ~Russ, everyday

Russ’ family is grateful for the loving and attentive care he received from the caregivers at Aguilera Home (especially Gambit, the resident therapy dog!), Hospice Family Care, and Gentiva Hospice.