REDMOND, Wash. — Herbert A. “Mike” Russell Sr., formerly of Smethport, Pa., passed away Monday (April 7, 2025) at Evergreen Health System in Kirkland.

He was born Jan. 24, 1936, in Farmers Valley, Pa., a son of Walter and Violet (Hibbard) Russell. On June 6, 2000, he married Virginia (Bayer) Russell, who survives.

Mike attended Smethport schools graduating in the class of 1954 and he was employed by the United States Postal Service in Smethport, from which he retired in 1992 after 25 years of service.

Mike was a veteran of the Armed Forces having completed two enlistments in the U.S. Air Force. Serving first as an airplane mechanic and later as a missile technician.

He was an avid fisherman and hunter, spending much time with his sons and friends hunting in the Bordell area of Farmers Valley and fishing near Quebec. Mike Sr. and his son Mike Jr. shared a special bond of numerous golfing and fishing trips together. He volunteered to deliver meals to senior citizens through the Presbyterian Church in Spartanburg, S.C., and he volunteered at a food bank in Monroe.

If you participated in sports in the Smethport area in the 1970s and ’80s, you probably knew Mike. He coached Little League, Babe Ruth and Legion baseball for years, devoting countless hours to the youth of Smethport. Mike also hosted two Babe Ruth State Championship Baseball Tournaments in Smethport. He was also president of Smethport Sports Boosters for many years and he was a lifetime member of Bucktail American Legion Post 138, Smethport. Mike formerly served on Smethport Borough Council.

In addition to his wife, Virginia, he is survived by two sons, Herbert “Mike” Russell Jr. of Smethport and Mark Russell of Punxsutawney, Pa.; a stepdaughter, Abbie (Erik) Bedell of North Bend; five grandchildren, Evelyn, Owen and Ayden Russell and Jack and Joe Bedell; two brothers, Walter “Bucky” Russell of Limestone, N.Y., and Charles “Tink” Russell of Butler, Pa.; one sister, Ardith White in South Carolina; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death on Nov. 10, 2013, by his son James D. Russell of Smethport; and three sisters, Arlene Russell, Anita McDowell and Arla Jean Stickles.

There will be no visitation. Memorials may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.