Russell E. Dehmel's Obituary
Russell E. Dehmel of St. Petersburg, Florida, passed away peacefully at Northside Hospital on Monday, June 3, 2019, with his loving family by his side. He was 71.
Russell was born on November 25, 1947. He grew up in St. Petersburg at a time when you could still hunt in the orange groves west of 52nd St.
When he was 18 he enlisted in the United States Air Force. He proudly served his country while developing his skills as a mechanic, which became a lifelong passion for working on cars. While stationed in Vietnam, he achieved the rank of sergeant.
Russell had an aptitude for the trades. After Vietnam, he served an apprenticeship as a second-generation member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). He worked as a Journeyman Wireman for over forty years on projects throughout the United States and abroad.
Russell loved his trade and the labor movement. In his 49 years as a member of the IBEW, he worked as a union organizer, elected officer, and President of IBEW Local Union, 308.
Russell had a lifelong love of music. As a product of the 60’s he was an avid Beatles fan. He loved to play his guitar and he passed that passion on to others. He was a true Florida boy who was happy anytime he was on the water.
Russell was a family man. He was happily married to Cheryl L. Dehmel (nee Elson) for 29 years. He was a devoted father to Cathy (Scott) Draeger and Jonathon (Jamey) Dehmel and a loving grandfather to Mallory, Morgan, Carter, and Mara.
Russell was preceded in death by his parents, Wilfred and Margaret Dehmel, and his brother, Lee Dehmel. He will be fondly remembered by his dear sister, Sharon (Malcolm) Kavanagh.
Russell will also be forever remembered by numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.
A memorial will be held Saturday, June 8, 2019 at 2 PM at Memorial Park Funeral Home and Cemetery. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Russell's life.
“And when the night is cloudy there is still a light that shines on me. Shine until tomorrow, let it be.” – The Beatles
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