Russell M. Yerkes

Russell M. Yerkes was born Jan. 15, 1921, in Denver, Colo. He passed away Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2009, at his home in Sandpoint, Idaho where he has lived since 1969.

During World War II, he worked in Ireland for Lockheed as well as serving in the U.S. Navy. He was an instructor to pilots and air crewmen in the ground school radio laboratory. The Marine Corps Reserve was part of his military history as well.

Russ met Fern Jean Savage (Dottie) at the St. Joe Hunting Lodge in 1962. They were married Valentine’s Day the following year.

In 1969, when they chose to relocate from Downey, Calif., Russ found what would become their perfect place. After many, many hours of very hard work it was turned into their little piece of paradise.

While living in Downey, he had real estate and insurance offices.

Russ was active in the chamber of commerce as well as being on the real estate board, serving in the capacity of president for both. After coming to Idaho he continued his real estate career.

He is survived by his wife, Dottie; daughters, Gayla and Susan; and four grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. He also has one cousin, Betty.

He was preceded in death by his son, Kenneth; his mother, Ora; his father, Clarence; and his grandmother, Minnie.

Memorial services will be conducted 1 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2009, at Coffelt Funeral Chapel. A private graveside will be held at the Evergreen Cemetery in Priest River.

The family suggests memorials be given to the Bonner Community Hospice or the Healing Garden, both at P.O. Box 1448, Sandpoint, ID.

Family and friends are invited to sign Russell’s online guest book at www.coffeltfuneral.com.

Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Coffelt Funeral Service.