Obituary of Russell Pokett

Russell V. Pokett Sr., 89, of Waukegan, IL, died peacefully at his home on Thursday, May 23, 2013, after a long illness. He was born September 10, 1923, in Luverne, MN, and married Betty Jane Herman on May 19, 1946, in Waukegan. Russell worked as an auto mechanic for Reed-Randle Ford in Waukegan for 44 years. He served with the United States Army in World War II in New Guinea and the Philippines with the 41st Division, 163rd Regiment. Russell received three Bronze Stars and the Meritorious Service Award, among other honors. He was a member of the Waukegan VFW Post #1293. Russell enjoyed doing jigsaw puzzles and small wood working projects. He freely gave his time and his creations to make others happy. His sense of humor is legendary. Russell was a loving family man, devoted to his wife, children, and children's children, with a soft spot for the family pets. He will be missed. Survivors include three children, Sandra Pokett of Waukegan, IL, Christine (Brian) Whittier of Winthrop Harbor, IL, Jane Pokett of Beach Park, IL, and Richard (Lisa) Pokett of Burlington, WI; grandchildren, Cynthia (Matthew) Van Den Broeke, Robin Whittier, and Alison (Scott) Dever; one great-granddaughter, Rebekah Van Den Broeke; many nieces and nephews; and a special and very dear caregiver, John Winters. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Betty in 2000; son Russell Pokett Jr. in 1996; sister, Evelyn Paske; brother, Ronald Pokett; and parents, Alvah and Christine Pokett. A Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, May 29, 2013, at 10:00 a.m. at Congdon Funeral Home, 3012 Sheridan Rd., Zion, IL, with Pastor David Eikenberry of First Presbyterian Church of Waukegan, officiating. Interment will follow at Northshore Garden of Memories, North Chicago. Visitation will be Tuesday, May 28, 2013 from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial donations are suggested to the American Lung Association.