Merten Ray Russ, 87, of Kelly passed from his earthly life to his eternal rest on Wednesday, February 19, 2014 at New Hanover Regional Medical Center. He was born April 5, 1926 in Columbus County, the son of the late George Edwin and Mary Ann "Molly" DeVane Russ. Merten was preceded in death by his son, Rusty Russ; sisters, Eppie R. Henry, Alice R. Overstreet, and Mildred Russ; and brothers, George, Frank, and Bobby G. Russ.

He is survived by his beloved wife of over 65 years, Hilda Rooks Russ; daughter, Kathy R. Walsak (Bob); son, Charles Russ (Peaches) all of Kelly; grandchildren, Terry Walsak (Kristy), Tommy Walsak (Lisa), Sunshine Neely (David) and Charlie Russ (Tonia); great grandchildren, Hailey, Alexandra, Michael, Amberly, Daisy, Hunter, Katie and Hannah; brothers, Kenneth Russ and Van Russ (Frances); many nieces and nephews including his special niece and caregiver, June Rooks.

Merten was a retired Bladen County farmer and for many years served on the Board of Directors of Kelly Volunteer Fire Department and Kelly Rescue Squad. He was a faithful member of Haw Bluff Baptist Church where he had served as a deacon and in charge of the church cemetery for many years.
Merten, a man of faith, was not only a loving husband, but a wonderful daddy, granddaddy "Pa Tucker", brother and friend. He loved all of God's nature as well as working in his garden and raising row crops on the farm. Merten and Hilda set an excellent example of love and Christian faith to their children and grandchildren. Merten will be remembered for his quiet manner, warm heart, gentle smile and his goodness on this earth.

Graveside funeral service will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, February 21, 2014 at Haw Bluff Baptist Church Cemetery with The Rev. Frank Russ officiating. The family will receive friends on Friday at 10:00 a.m. in the church Fellowship Hall until hour of the service.

In lieu of flowers memorial gifts may be given to Lower Cape Fear Hospice Foundation, 1414 Physicians Dr., Wilmington, NC 28401.

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Graveside funeral service will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, February 21, 2014 at Haw Bluff Baptist Church Cemetery with The Rev. Frank Russ officiating. The family will receive friends on Friday at 10:00 a.m. in the church Fellowship Hall until hour of the service.