Russell Arthur Blanford, 81, Luverne, died Thursday, Feb. 7, 2002, at his farm.
Services were Tuesday, Feb. 12, at St. Catherine Catholic Church in Luverne. Burial was in St. Catherine Catholic Cemetery, Luverne.
Russell Blanford was born on the family farm in Rock County near Hardwick where he was raised and attended Hardwick School. Following his education he worked on the family farm.
He marred Maxine "Sis" Markl on Feb. 4, 1946, at St. Leo Catholic Church in Pipestone. Following their marriage they briefly farmed near Hardwick. They moved to a farm near Luverne where he farmed for 47 years. Mrs. Blanford died on Jan. 13, 1994. He continued living on the farm and later spent most of his time at his apartment in Luverne.
Mr. Blanford was a member of St. Catherine Catholic Church in Luverne. He was also a member of the Luverne Eagles Club where he enjoyed rolling dice and cooking. He enjoyed playing cards, raising sheep and going to the sales barn. He also enjoyed hunting deer and fishing.
Survivors include two nieces, Trudy Anderson, Magalia, Calif., and Glenda (Dennis) Kleinsaser, Denver, Colo.; three nephews, Jack (Darlene) Biever Jr., Garretson, S.D., Dave (Cindy) Biever, Sioux Falls, S.D., and Tom (Linda) Biever, Beaver Creek; and special friend, Ardyth Gass, Luverne.
Mr. Blanford was preceded in death by his wife, parents, and one sister, Wava Wentzel.
Engebretson Funeral Home, Luverne, was in charge of arrangements.