Russell Conger

Russell James Conger went to Heaven on December 3, 2012 at his home surrounded by his daughters. Russell was born April 23, 1927 to the late Warren and Mary (Faust) Conger. He was one of 10 children. His brothers and sisters affectionately called him "Bobby". He grew up on a farm north of Oshkosh that is now the intersection of Highway 41 and 76. He was never able to finish high school because of being needed on the farm. However, a program available through the Oshkosh public schools allowed him to receive an honorary diploma for Veterans from World War II. It was a proud day for him. He met his sweetheart, Jalaine Havemann, before he signed up for the duration of World War II. He served in the Navy stationed in the Philippines. Upon his return, they were married on November 26, 1946 at his parents house. They were together for 54 years. If you saw one, you saw the other, since they always did everything together. Jalaine preceded him to heaven on May 9, 2001. Russell worked hard his whole life, many times working 2 jobs to raise his family. Most would remember him from Rockwell International where he worked for 30 years as a supervisor, retiring in 1982. Growing up on the farm, he never lost his love of gardening. He had a passion for growing tomatoes and educating others on the process from planting to harvesting. He prided himself on being the first person to have homegrown ripe tomatoes which he lovingly gave away. In later years as his health deteriorated, he wasn't able to do all the things he was used to. He found a new passion in bingo. He loved to play bingo with his daughter, Bonnie. Those Russell leaves to cherish his memory are his daughters, Barbara Ferrier, Bonnie (Wayne) Alexander and Beverly (Jeff) Rice. 6 grandchildren, David, John and Daniel Ferrier, Lori (Chris) Jones and Kari Alexander and Michelle Rice. 3 great grandchildren, Harrison Wendt, Grace Jones and Crystal Rice. One sister Adeline Strasser, 2 brothers, Donald and Eugene Conger and sister-in-law Ruth Conger. He was preceded in death by his wife Jalaine, 2 daughters Sandra Jean and Brenda JoAnne, 4 brothers Edwin, Harvey, Leslie and Gerald and 1 sister Arlene Luce. He was a member of Calvary Lutheran Church. In Lieu of flowers a memorial in Russell's name can be made to Calvary Lutheran Church. A celebration of Russell's life will be held at Calvary Lutheran Church @ 2580 W. 9th Ave. Oshkosh, WI 54904 on Saturday December 8, 2012 at 12 noon. Rev. Timothy Routh will officiate. Visitation will be held at the church on Saturday from 10 am until 12 noon. Private committal services will be held. The family wishes to thank Affinity Hospice care for all their help, especially Barb, an angel here on earth. Russell was not afraid of dying. He said "God put me here and God will take me home. Put yourself at ease. God will take care of you. Slow down. Hear the birds and smell the flowers" Fiss & Bills Funeral Home 865 S. Westhaven Drive Oshkosh, WI 54904 (920) 235-1170 www.fissbillspoklasny.com

Russell Conger

April 23, 1927 - December 8, 2012

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