Michael Russell, 72, of Columbia City, passed away at 12:36 p.m. Monday, September 22, 2025, at Parkview Regional Hospital, Fort Wayne, surrounded by family.

Born on July 19, 1953, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, he was the son of the late Gracie (Kincaid) Mathias.  Growing up near Larwill, he completed Larwill Elementary School and graduated from Pierceton High School in 1971.

On September 20, 1972, he entered the U.S. Air Force and trained as a jet engine mechanic.  He served in Vietnam and was honorably discharged on April 30, 1975.

On August 21, 1982, he married Martha Marie Polk.  The couple made their home in Columbia City, Indiana.

For over 20 years, Mike worked as a machine operator at Zimmer in Warsaw.  He was a member of Community Bible Church in Columbia City.

Mike loved his kids and grandkids and often attended their sporting events, such as basketball, tennis and track.  He was an avid Indiana University Basketball fan, following them throughout the season.  In his senior years, he enjoyed watching old westerns and the TV comedy M*A*S*H.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 43 years, Martha; children, Shannon (Jeremy) Townsend of Columbia City, Christopher (Jene) Russell of Brownsburg, Andrew (Emily) Russell of Columbia City, and Matt (Kinsey) Russell of Naperville, IL; grandchildren, Rylan Herron, Brendyn Herron, Braden Russell, Silas Russell, Eleanor Russell, and his beloved grand-dog, Maya; a brother, Mark (Kathy) Mathias of Larwill; a sister, Jamie (Ronald) Hile of Cromwell, and a brother in-law, James Johnston of Columbia City.

He was preceded in death by a sister, E. Jane Johnston, and a brother, Roger Mathias.

The funeral service is at 10 a.m. Friday (Sept 26th) at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.  Burial is at the Adams Cemetery.  Visitation is from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday (Sept 25th) at the funeral home.

Memorials in Michael's honor are to final expenses c/o Smith & Sons Funeral Home.