Russell Lee Paceley

Russell Lee Paceley Sr., age 78, passed away on Tuesday, January 24, 2017, in Chandler, Arizona. He was born on September 1, 1938 in Decatur, Illinois. He grew up in Decatur, Illinois, and attended Steven Decatur High School. He served in the U.S. Navy. After leaving the Navy, he became a member of the International Union of Elevator Constructors and worked for several elevator companies including Otis and Montgomery. After retiring from the elevator business he worked for the Missouri Department of Mental Health. Throughout his life, Russ volunteered his time with both young and old. He was an umpire, coach, leader, chauffeur for veterans, and lifelong friend to many people. Among other things, Russ was an Exalted Ruler in the Elks, a member of the Loyal Order of Moose, and a member of the Heart of America Newfoundland Club. He is survived by his children: Russell (Merry) Paceley, David (Jamie) Paceley, Dawn (Donald) Ventrone, Linda Challinor, and Tim (JoAnn) Lemport; his grandchildren: Erin Bass, Jake (Maura) Hancey, Amanda Paceley, Tiffany Paceley, Brandi Paceley, Dayne (Alex) Ventrone, Mackenzie Ventrone, Kross Challinor, and Karli Challinor. He is also survived by his brothers and sisters: Joyce (Larry) Arthur, Art (Carol) Paceley, Mary Paceley, Nancy Paceley, George Paceley, Candy (Kevin) Drohan, and John (Margaret) Paceley. He was preceded in death by his mother, Velma Johnson Paceley; his father, Melbourne Paceley; son-in-law, Greg Challinor; and grandson, Tyler Challinor. A memorial service will be held on February 18, 2017, beginning at 2:00 p.m. at the Elks Lodge in Jefferson City, Missouri.