Marion L. Russell 101 years old.

Oldest Living Retired Border Patrolman in the United States 1907 - 2009.

Born and raised in Sheridan, WY to Harry M. and Mary Russell.

Preceded in death by his parents, brother, Harry Russell; sister, Josephine Magill; wife, Ethel Russell; granddaughter, Shelley L. Smith and grandson-in-law, Lonny R. Hill.

Survived by daughter, Mary Alice (Art) Delph; son, Vern D. (Judy) Russell; grandchildren, Nita Hill - Apache Jct., Robert (Dale) Russell - Idaho, Jeanne (Jeff) Ruhl - California, William (MaryAnn) Russell - Tucson, Diane (James) Allerton - Tucson; step-grandchildren, Debbie (Richard) Williams - Tucson, Lynda (Curt) Lively - Indiana, Pamela (Bryan) Belcher - Phoenix; 17 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild and many nieces and nephews.

Marion graduated from Iowa State University, and was a teacher in Billings, Montana, and High School in Gillette, WY where he met his wife Ethel. They were married in September of 1935.

He joined the U.S. Border Patrol in August of 1942. He and his family moved around Southern Arizona for 31 years. He retired in 1973.

Marion and Ethel loved traveling in their camper and 5th wheel. Many times with friends. They were both rock hounds and belonged to the Old Pueblo Lapidary Club. Marion served as President twice and also as Treasurer.

Marion belonged to the Masons in Sheridan, Wyoming, Elks in Casa Grande, Arizona and a long time member of Trinity Presbyterian Church.

Marion was loved by his family and many friends, and will be truly missed by all.

Visitation will be held at EAST LAWN PALMS CHAPEL, Sunday, July 12, 2009 from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Funeral Service will be held at EAST LAWN PALMS, on Monday, July 13, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. Interment to follow at East Lawn Palms Cemetery.

Tucson Newspapers - 7/12/2009