Russell Leon Oyer

     Russell Leon Oyer, 92, of Chillicothe, passed away peacefully 6:06 a.m. Monday, June 14, 2021 at his residence following a short illness.

     He was born January 18, 1929, in Ross County, to the late Leon C. and Garnet O’Dell Oyer. 

     Russell was a devoted husband of 72 years to the late Eulah Maxine Oyer, who passed away May 13, 2019.  He and Eulah had two children, a daughter, Vicki Oyer Dixon, of Chillicothe and a son, Dan (Candy) Oyer, of Chillicothe.  They have granddaughter, Valerie Lockard and grandsons, Josh an Cody as well as many great grandchildren and one great great grandchild and many nieces and nephews.  He is also survived by a sister, Helen Borland and brothers, Jim and Bill Oyer.  Russell was preceded in death by a sister, Marilyn Sheets and a brother, Forrest “Bud” Oyer.

     At age 10, Russell started working at Mauger’s Store on Cook’s Hill Road by sweeping the store and waiting on customers.  Because of World War II, he could start at the Paper Mill at 16 ½.  He started out on the cutters until he turned 17.  At that age, he could work on a paper machine.  Russel worked his way up the ranks through the years on the paper machines.  He retied after 46 years at age 62 as Superintendent of Paper Machines.

     After retirement, Russell and Eulah both volunteered for several years for the Huntington Township Volunteer Fire Department Ladies’ Auxiliary.  They both helped out on Bingo nights to help raise funds to purchase fire equipment.

     Russell also took the time to help out anyone in the neighborhood who needed a hand.  Whether this meant fixing a leaky sink or adding an extra hand for adding on a room addition.  He was there.  He taught many of the neighborhood children how to tie their shoes as well.  He was a hero to many and saved the life of his father-in-law by lifting a fallen car off him. 

     He will be missed.

     Family and friends may call at the WARE FUNERAL HOME from 4:30 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, June 17, 2021.  A private graveside service, with Pastor Rick Hartley officiating, will be held at the convenience of the family.  Burial will be in Huntington Township Cemetery.

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

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