Alfred Russell "Russ" Poole, 92 years old, born June 4, 1928 died in his home surrounded by family on Thursday, December 10th, 2020.

He graduated from Chillicothe High School in 1946 and immediately joined the United States Navy through 1948.  Russ received one of the earliest Associates Degrees from OU-C in 1950.  He worked as a reporter for the Chillicothe Gazette and was Editor in Chief for the Mead Reporter during the 1959 Flood Edition.  A keen urge to travel lead him to Germany in the 1950's to work as a civilian, for the US Army Counter-Intelligence, screening post WWII refugees for admission into the United States.  In 1960, he began working for Radio Free Europe in Munich Germany, where he spent the bulk of his career and retired as Vice President.  He led the most amazing life in Europe.  His tales ranged from cold war intrigue all the way to his speaking role in the movie Willy Wonka.  Beyond that, he was the most wonderful and loving father, husband and grandfather.  He will be deeply missed.

Russ is survived by his wife, Renate Monika Poole (Eisen), two sons, Russell Dustan Poole (Barbara) and Ryan Christopher Poole (Karla) and two grandchildren, Darby Joetta Keaton (Benjamin) and Dalton Russell Poole.  He was preceded in death by his first wife and mother of his sons, Joetta Maxine Poole (Heiss).

In keeping with his wishes, a private graveside service will be held in Grandview Cemetery for family.  There will be no calling hours.  Arrangements are under the direction of the WARE FUNERAL HOME.

An attempt will be made to livestream the graveside service.  In the event that the portable wifi signal fails, the recording will be uploaded shortly after the service is over.  The link for the broadcast is located at the bottom of this page.

You may sign his online register at www.warefh.com