Russell B. Ehlers

Russell B. Ehlers, age 88, of Port Washington, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving children, on March 3, 2017, at Lawlis Family Hospice, in Mequon. Russell was born on February 9, 1929, in Milwaukee, the son of the late Grover Cleveland Ehlers and the late Corsenna (nee Braasch) Ehlers. He attended Marquette High School and upon his graduation Russell went on to play for the Detroit Tigers AA farm team. He was an exceptional pitcher and also led the league in home runs and batting average. After a few years of playing, Russell decided to focus his life on a family as well as a career. Russell was united in marriage to Lenore Kupczak on April 11, 1953, in Milwaukee and their marriage was blessed with two children, Jan and James. He was employed by Pratt Manufacturing working as a plant manager for nearly 40 years. He was a dedicated employee who gave his time and talents to the company. In 1979, the company was bought by the Bodolay Brothers and they relocated to Lakeland, Florida. Russell along with his wife, made the move to Florida and he remained with the company until his retirement in 1993. Shortly after his retirement, he and his wife, relocated back to Wisconsin, to be closer to his family and friends. Russell was a true sportsman. He enjoyed golfing, trap shooting, and being out on the open waters fishing every chance he could get. Russell had a zest for life and was so very proud of his family. Russell is survived by his children, Jan Adams and James (Vicki) Ehlers, grandchildren, James (Deanna) Sasaki-Adams, Melissa (Thomas) Reuter, Jarod (Shelly) Adams, Timothy Ehlers, Sara (Dan) Yarrington, and Joshua Ehlers, and sister-in-law, Elizabeth Ehlers. He is further survived by 11 great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Russell was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Lenore, son-in-law, Gary Adams, and two brothers, Ralph and Richard Ehlers. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, April 22, 2017, 11AM at the Mueller Funeral Home & Crematory, in Grafton. The family will receive friends and relatives, on Saturday, April 22, 2017, from 10AM until 11AM. Memorials can be made to the charity of your choice.