Russell Spuhler

Russell C. Spuhler, 'The Restless Spirit' March 26, 1917 - Oct. 1, 2012. After recovering from several surgeries this year, and even getting back to his deer hunting blind in September, Russell C. Spuhler of Oconomowoc passed on unexpectedly on Oct. 1, 2012, at the age of 95. Russell was born March 26, 1917 in Hartford, to Royal and Cora Spuhler. He was married to Marion Sixt of Mayville, on June 6, 1948. Russ lived life with gusto! He loved gardening and spending time outdoors, especially Up North and by the Rock River. He was an avid hunter of deer, game birds, morels and hickory nuts. He enjoyed growing berries, apples, pears, and large zucchinis, and sharing them with friends. Work was his play; he found great satisfaction in building things and making improvements to his home and cabin. He will be remembered for his friendly, fun-loving, and generous nature. Russ retired from the Wisconsin Telephone Company in 1982 after over 35 years of service. He enjoyed installing and repairing phone systems as much as meeting and helping the many people he encountered everyday. He embraced many changes over his almost century-long lifetime. He was very proud to be the first in his family to own a car: a used 1927 Model T, aptly christened the 'Restless Spirit.' He is survived by his two devoted daughters: Kathleen (Henry McHalsky) Spuhler of Okauchee, and Maureen (John Morris) Spuhler of East Hampton, CT; also his sister Dorothy Conrardy of Arkansas, and his brother Robert of Hartford. Russell was preceded in death by his beloved wife Marion; his brothers Howard, Earl, and Burnell; and his first wife Margaret. Mass of Christian Burial for Russell will be held on Saturday, Oct. 13th, 2012 at 11 a.m. at St. Jerome Catholic Church (995 South Silver Lake Street, Oconomowoc, WI 53066). Family will greet relatives and friends from 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials to St. Jerome Catholic School or a Nature organization of your choice are appreciated. The family would like to thank all Russell's doctors, nurses and therapists, who helped him live his life to the fullest, especially his second family at Purity Dialysis in Oconomowoc.