John D. Russell

March 29, 1963-September 2, 2025

John D. Russell, 62, of Flinton, formerly of Altoona, passed away Tuesday at UPMC Altoona after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born in Altoona, the son of the late Paul R. and Lois J. (McGeary) Russell, Sr.

He was twice married; first to Mindy R. Black on July 14, 1986, she preceded him in death on March 10, 2013. John then married Susan Denny, on February 2, 2022.

He is survived by his loving wife, Sue; his son, Aaron M. Russell (Emily) of Philadelphia and daughter, Natalie R. Russell of Altoona; two step-daughters, Shannon Peacock of Ebensburg and Carolyn Burton of Idaho; five grandchildren: Cooper, Maxwell, Daniel, Bowman and Ava; his brother and sisters: Paul R. Russell, Jr., Dianne L. Zientz and Donna J. Russell all of Port St. Lucie, FL and Deborah Ann Russell of Altoona.

John was preceded in death by his wife, Mindy; his parents; an infant son, Johnathon and his sister, Kathy Russell.

He was a 1981 graduate of Altoona Area High School and was previously the owner and operator of Russell Tire, Co.

John enjoyed going to the beach, participating in the go-cart circuit with his son, Aaron and riding his bike.

Friends will be received from 4-7 pm, Wednesday, September 10, 2025 at E. Merrill Smith Funeral Home, Inc., 2309 Broad Avenue, Altoona, PA 16601. A funeral service will be held at 11 am, Thursday, September 11, 2025 at the funeral home with Pastor Douglas McGaffin.

Interment will be held at Alto Reste.

Condolences may be made at www.stevensfamilyfuneralhomes.com or Stevens Family Funeral Homes Facebook.