(November 24, 1943 – June 15, 2012)

James Russell, 68, of Atlantic, Iowa, passed on Friday, June 15, 2012, at the Exira Care Center. His parents, Frank and Lois Thomas, and his daughter, Kelly Ann Thomas, preceded James in death.

James is survived by his wife, Diana, of Atlantic, Iowa; daughter, Melissa Mayer (Gene) of Minnesota; and his son, James Michael Thomas (Irene) of California; his grandchildren, Adam, Samantha, Amanda, Kaitlyn, Haley, George, Jessica; and his great-granddaughter, Kaea; his brothers, Thomas (Mary Ellen) of Virginia; Greg (Martha) of Wisconsin; and his sister, Gail Thompson of Wisconsin; as well as nieces and nephews; his step-daughters, Stacey Crews, of Missouri; Tracey (Jeremy) Lett of Anita; and his step-grandchildren.

James served in the United States Coast Guards from 1962 through 1966. Most of his life, he was employed as a press operator. When he resided in Atlantic, he was employed at the Atlantic News Telegraph and the YMCA, as well as a few other places. He enjoyed the outdoors, working with leather, and spending time on his laptop computer. During the past couple years he took up making bracelets, key chains, and dragon flies with paracord. He donated dragon flies to the local Hospice. Cremation has taken place.

A graveside service will be held at the Evergreen Cemetery, in Anita, Iowa, at 10:00 a.m., Monday, July 2, 2012.

Hockenberry Family Care in Atlantic, Iowa, is assisting the family with the arrangements.