Russell V. Staples, age 84 of Centreville, passed away Saturday, December 20th, 2008. He was born in Three Rivers, on September 8, 1924, the son of Joseph and Thelma (Heslet) Staples. Russell attended Three Rivers Schools and graduated from Centreville High School. On December 1, 1945 he married Margery Clark in Three Rivers. She preceded him in death November 8, 2003. Russ served in the US Army Air Corps. from 1945 to 1946.

Russ worked at Denton Mills from 1947 until 1957, then at Continental Can from 1957 until 1976. Following this he worked as a maintenance man for St. Joseph County from 1976 until 1988, and later worked for Centreville Public Schools. He enjoyed vacationing in Walhalla, MI, woodworking, ceramics and golf. Russ also served as a Volunteer Fireman and Assistant Scout Master for pack #407 Centreville.

Surviving Russ are his daughter Linda (Martin) DeLeo, Centreville, sons Roger (Debra) Staples, Mendon, Michael Staples, Three Rivers, Douglas (Raenel) Staples, Sturgis, grandchildren Chandra Tavernier, Jeffery DeLeo, Amy Staples, Brian Staples, Joseph Staples, James Staples, Julieanne Staples, great grandchildren, Brittany Tavernier, Emily and Cooper DeLeo, Hydee and Heather Staples, Kadence and Kendel. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, brother Robert Staples and grandson Joshua Staples.

Relatives and friends will be received Tuesday from 5 - 8 pm at the Eley Funeral Home in Centreville, where Religious Services will be held at 10 am Wednesday with Pastor Jim Savasta officiating. Interment will be at Prairie River Cemetery Centreville. Memorial contributions may be made to Three Rivers Hospice.