Russell Edward Diehl

Mr. Russell Edward “Red Dog” Diehl, peacefully passed away in his home in Kalispell, Montana on January 21, 2019. He was born on December 15, 1932, to his parents Harry Russell Diehl and Winifred (Vanderhoff) Diehl in Colville, Washington.

Russell attended and graduated high school in Hot Springs, Montana. Russell married the love of his life, Etta Jean Diehl on September 18th, 1954. He remained faithfully by her side until she passed away on August 26th, 2017.

During and after high school, Russell worked for his father’s logging company, as a logger and truck driver. Russell later enlisted in the Navy in 1952, serving for 4 years, including during the Korean War, where he was stationed on Guam, and the USS Sperry. While enlisted, Russell earned the National Defense Service Medal, as well as the Good Conduct Medal.

He later returned to logging and spent the majority of his life working in the woods, later his own logging company. He considered his two children, Debbie Anderson and Daniel Diehl, his greatest accomplishments. Russell greatly enjoyed fishing, hunting, breakfasts with friends at Cislo’s, spending time with his late friend, Joe Berosik, and spending time with his family.

Russell is survived by his two sisters, Janis Morgieau and Patty Donais, his children, Debbie and Dan, as well as his five grandchildren, Jara, Ryan, Eric, Courtney, and Collin. He is also survived by his four great-grandchildren, Wyatt, Emma, Brycen, and Brynn.

A memorial service and celebration of life will be held at The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory in Polson, Montana on Friday, January 25, 2019 at 2 p.m.