RUSSELL MICHAEL PENCE

Russell Michael Pence, 96, of Richmond, MO died peacefully October 21, 2017, at his home in Richmond, MO.

Russell was born on June 14, 1921, to Noah Michael and Martha Mae (Fifer) Pence in Rockingham, MO in Ray County, the youngest of seven children. He married Wilma Penny of Hardin, on December 27, 1946. She survives at the home.

In addition to his wife, survivors include: one son and daughter-in-law, Dale and Jill Pence of Richmond, and one daughter and son-in-law, Penny and Mark Kugler of Richmond, and one son-in-law, Gary Manning, of Richmond. Additional survivors include: 8 grandchildren and spouses, Aaron and Angela Manning, Ryan and Tammy Kugler, Chad and Amy Burnine, Rusty and Megan Kugler, Denise Klee, Regan Kugler, Lacy Kay, Catherine Pence, and Jackson Pence. Russell is also survived by 12 great-grandchildren.

Family who preceded Russell in death besides his parents and his 2 brothers and 4 sisters include: one daughter, Diane Manning, and one great-granddaughter, Luna Marie Kugler.

Russell attended Union Grade School and Central High School. He was inducted in the Army Air Corps in October, 1942. He was stationed in India (China, Burma, India Theatre) where he served as an airplane mechanic Crew Chief in the Air Transport Command. Upon returning from the war, Russell started farming and working in the Ford tractor dealership in Richmond. Because of his love for and experience in ag-business, he purchased the dealership in 1962. After selling the Ford tractor dealership, he became the first Vermeer dealership in the state of Missouri and sold the first Vermeer bailer in the state. Russell was engaged with and worked in Agri-business his whole life.

Russell was an active member of the Henrietta Baptist Church where he served in many capacities including as trustee and member of the church building committee. The position he last held was as church greeter, which he loved doing every Sunday rain or shine.

Russell and Wilma celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary this past December, a testimony to their love for and devotion to each other.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to New Hope Cemetery Association north of Hardin.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, October 25, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. at the Thurman Funeral Home Chapel in Richmond. Visitation will be held one hour prior to services on Wednesday at the funeral home. Burial will be in the New Hope Cemetery, north of Hardin, Mo, where military honors will be conducted by the Ray County Veterans. On line condolences may be left to the family at www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.