Carol Jean Russell

Carol Jean (Wurzel) Russell, 75, of La Crosse, passed away peacefully at Gundersen Health System on Thursday, January 24, 2019, surrounded by her family.

She was born in La Crosse on February 9, 1943, to George and Ina (Bennett) Wurzel. Carol was a 1961 graduate of Aquinas High School. She married Tom Russell on May 2, 1970, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, La Crosse; even though she was unable to physically attend services these past years, her faith remained strong. Carol worked as a floor supervisor for many years at Jack Winter, as well as The Winona Knitting Mills. She was a floral designer for My Florist and worked in the laundry department at Bethany St. Joseph Nursing Home. Most recently, Carol took much pride and joy delivering the mail to her fellow residents at Eagle Crest South.

Carol was an avid Packer fan, especially fond of Clay Matthews. She also enjoyed being outdoors and exploring the area on her Hoveround with her friend, Alberta. Above all else, Carol loved her family!

Carol is survived by her son, Mark (Kari) Russell of Sparta; her daughter, Michelle (Eric) Prieur of La Crosse; a brother, George Wurzel of Eau Claire; and a sister, Lois Bernd-Houth of La Crosse. She is also survived by five grandchildren: Jayna, Jake, Julia, Keaton, Corbin, and Jacoby; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Tom Russell; her parents, George and Ina Wurzel; her sister, Eileen (Wurzel) Olson; and brothers, Leslie and La Verne Wurzel.

Visitation will be Friday, February 1, 2019 at Schumacher-Kish Funeral & Cremation Services of La Crosse from 4:30 pm to 8:00 pm. A service will be held at Immanuel Lutheran Church on Saturday, February 2, 2019 at 10:30 am, with Pastor David Leistekow officiating. Friends and family may call from 9:30 am until the time of service. Burial will be in the Woodlawn Cemetery on Mormon Coulee Rd., with a luncheon to follow at Immanuel Lutheran School. Memorials are preferred in lieu of flowers.

Carol’s family would like to thank Dr. David Momont for the quality care and support he gave their mother over the years, and the rest of the staff at Gundersen Health System. They are also forever grateful to the caregivers and staff at Eagle Crest South for giving Carol a safe and loving place to call home!