Obituaries

David A. and Michelle G. Gray Russell

October 19, 2013

Husband and wife David A. Russell, 67, and Michelle G. Gray Russell, 53, of Mount Joy, passed away unexpectedly in Franklin County on Saturday, October 19, 2013. They were married for 20 years last April.

David was born in Chicago, IL, to the late Kenneth and Violet Martin Russell. He served stateside in the Army during the Vietnam War. Dave loved cars and music. He worked as a car salesman for Lancaster Mitsubishi.

Michelle was born in Harvey, IL to the late Edward and Elizabeth Dunn Gray. She graduated from Kankakee Valley High School in Indiana. Michelle was a car saleswoman for Jones Honda, then Kelly Cadillac and currently for Autohaus. She loved animals, especially her cat Thomas and dog Sammy. Michelle loved her nieces and nephews, and was affectionately known as Aunt Michelle by her family and friends.

Dave’s family includes his three sons, Ken Russell (Lisa), Leo, IN, Kevin Russell (Mary), Columbia City, IN, and Matt Russell (Melinda), Fort Wayne, IN; and 15 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Michelle’s family includes her sister Pat Pankey (John), Foley, AL, her brother Bill Gray (Sundae), Fort Collins, CO, and numerous nieces and nephews. Michelle was predeceased by her brother Bob Gray.

Memorial Services will take place 6:30 PM, Friday, October 25, 2013, at St. Thomas Episcopal Church, 301 St. Thomas Drive, Lancaster, PA 17601. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be mailed to The Humane League of Lancaster County, 2195 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster, PA 17602.

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Condolences to the Family

October 26, 2013

Three weeks ago I walked into Autohaus to test drive a Volkswagen. I was introduced to Michelle with whom I immediately fell in love. She was kind, graceful and funny. On the test drive we talked about our animals, our amazing partners and her upcoming travel. I never once felt like I was buying a car. During the next few days, we talked as I was waiting for the car to arrive and it felt as if I was talking to a friend I’ve known my whole life. It’s amazing the impact she made on me in what was simply a two hour transaction. My heart sank when Autohaus told me the news. My heart goes out to Michelle’s family, who no doubt is feeling a great loss.

October 25, 2013

You & your family have been in my thoughts, in my prayers. There are no words that can truly ease the pain of a sudden loss like this… But if caring thoughts can help, they are with you right now, with heartfelt sympathy, from both … Candy & Larry Birkenfeld. 

October 25, 2013

I know that this has been such a shock to you and your family, Pat…. Just know that u have many friends here to hold you up, at this most trying time….. Wherever there are beautiful souls…. There are a trail of wonderful memories…. Hang on tight to each if those …. Love u Patty! Forever friend 
 

October 25, 2013

Dear Matt and Melinda…
please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
from conny franken

October 25, 2013

VAN CONTRACTING EMPLOYEES EXPRESS OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO THE RUSSELL FAMILIES.  THIS IS A TRUE TRAGEDY
THAT EFFECTS MANY LIVES.  PLEASE TAKE COMFORT IN KNOWING THEY ARE TOGETHER ETERNALLY.  GOD BLESS AND
SAFE TRAVELS HOME TO INDIANA.       

October 25, 2013

Ken Russell and Family,
Truly sorry for your sudden loss. All of you are in our thoughts and prayers during this diffcult time. 
Greg and Kate Lynch

October 24, 2013

so sorry for this shocking loss.   my heartfelt condolences to all.   I was Betty’s caregiver and Michelle became a friend to my daughters and me.   Mother Christmas will be sorely missed and Dave’s wry sense of humor also.     Elaine Kolle

October 24, 2013

This was a terrible loss for everyone. I worked with Dave years ago at Chapman Ford. He was a great guy who was always willing to work hard. Our prayers are with the family. R.I.P. Dave and Michelle…………..Marty.

October 24, 2013

I only know Michelle’s sister, Pat, but I am so sorry to all who lost their life that day.  My prayers are with all of you and may they all RIP with our Lord.
Sherry Stone

October 23, 2013

Kevin and Mary,
Sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family for this unsuspected tragedy.
It must be some comfort to know they were both so well respected in the community.
May you gather strength from each other during this difficult time.
Jeannie and Kevin Dean
 

October 23, 2013

Russell Family,
Words cannot express the sadness we feel.  We are so sorry for your loss.  Please know you are in our thoughts and prayer during this difficult time.
Stankovic family

October 23, 2013

I do not know the family,but when I heard about the accident my heart was very sad. I live in Elizabethtown so it was like we were neighbors. I am so sorry you lost your loved ones. I lost my mom in aug. I have been praying for the family since this all happened. God bless you all.
Melissa King

October 23, 2013

I worked with Michelle at Autohaus and I want to convey my deepest sympathies for the families of Dave and Michelle.  She was such a vibrant woman.  I was just getting to know her.  Gone way to soon.  I will keep you all in my prayers.  R.I.P. Dave and Michelle

October 23, 2013

My thoughts and prayers are with your family and closest friends. 

October 23, 2013

Emery and I are so very sorry to lose our good friends Dave and Michelle.  We will miss them very much, expecially at holidays.  So many good memories.  And we have Dave’s projects with Emery at our house to remember him by.
Mary Ellen DeWitt

Services
Friday, October 25, 2013
6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
St. Thomas Episcopal Church
301 St. Thomas Drive
Lancaster, PA
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