John Arthur Russell

John Arthur Russell was born in Greeley, Colorado to Earle and Cleda (Munson) Russell on October 22, 1948. He passed away on Monday, November 18, 2019 in Greeley. John attended Greeley Schools, graduating from Greeley Central High School in 1966. He went to Northeastern Junior College in Sterling, Colorado and then finished his Bachelor and Master’s degree at University of Northern Colorado, majoring in fine arts. After graduating from college, he entered the Army, serving from 1970-1972 and was stationed in Berlin. In 1969, he married Nancy Roukema (Critchfield) and had a daughter, Lara, his little "LD Babes” who he adored. Nancy and John later divorced. In 1991, John met and Barbara Hines and later would marry and spend the rest of his life with. Together Barb and John had their own property management company and later HOA management company. John was a talented artist specializing in ceramics. He had a studio, Novy Mir Arts, in Greeley for many years. John had a zest for life. He climbed many 14-ers including one of his favorites, Longs Peak, which he climbed numerous times. He enjoyed cycling throughout his younger years and did many cycling tours with good friends. He had his pilot’s license and had a love of flying; he was also a flight instructor. He loved going to Rocky Mountain National Park and looked forward to the annual Father’s Day trip with his daughter and grandson. He enjoyed going to the UNC Bear’s football games with Barb and spending time with good friends and family including Sunday night movie nights. John had a special connection with his grandson Ridge who he called RJ. He and his grandson spent many happy hours playing cards, going to the movies and Chuck E. Cheese. John loved to fix things and was incredibly smart, always tinkering with something. John never met a cat or dog that didn’t absolutely adore him. He was so passionate about animals and the welfare of animals, he dedicated many years of service to the Weld County Humane Society. John was loved and respected by all who knew him. He will be missed beyond measure. He is survived by his wife, Barbara (Hines); and his daughter, Lara (Tim) Wiley; and his adored grandson, Ridge John Archer Wiley,; as well as siblings, Sharon Russell, Susan Waller, Richard Russell; aunt and uncle, Polly and John Cronin; mother-in-law Marnie Hines, and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; nephew, Daniel John Waller; and brother, James Lavern Russell. Life Celebration will be held on December 2, 2019 at 11 a.m. at Adamson with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the "Wild Animal Sanctuary” in care of Adamson Life Celebration Home, 2000 47th Ave, Greeley, CO 80634. Friends may leave condolences at AdamsonCares.com.