- Date Of Birth: November 4, 1934
- Date Of Death: October 12, 2022
- State: Idaho
Russell Dennis Melish, 87, of Idaho Falls, passed away October 12, 2022, at his home.
Russ was born November 4, 1934, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to D’mytro Melish and Katherine Dubowy Melish. He grew up and attended schools in Philadelphia and graduated from Abraham Lincoln High School in 1952. He also attended Pennsylvania State University where he graduated in 1955 with a major in business management and a minor in English. He served in the United States Air Force until 1959.
On May 12, 1967, he married Sharrol Howard in Philadelphia. Russ and Sharrol moved to Osgood, Idaho, in 1971 where they made their home and raised their family: daughter, Sherry (Greg) Wardle; son, Frank (Laura) Melish; and son, Ted Melish. Russ and Sharrol were later divorced. Russ worked at O’Dells furniture as a manager until his retirement, but then continued working part-time until his death.
Everyone who knew Russ felt his big heart and giving nature. Russ was an avid golfer which was one of his favorite activities to do with his granddaughter, Kim Melish. He also enjoyed fly fishing and hunting. He loved his animals that he would adopt from the shelter.
Russ will be missed by many, especially his grandchildren: Kim Melish, Shaun Wardle, Tyson Melish, and Mickey Wardle; and his great grandsons, Christopher Martinez and Jayden Melish. He was preceded in death by his grandson, Michael Melish, as well as countless other family members and dear friends.
The family would like to thank everyone that looked in on him and helped him so much throughout the years, especially his daughter-in-law, Laurie Holden, whom he lovingly referred to as his daughter.
Rest in peace, Grandpa, you will be loved and missed beyond measure.
