Russell E. Fruin, 84 of Battle Creek, was graciously received into the arms of His Lord and Savior on Friday, April 1, 2011. He was born February 3, 1927 in Battle Creek, Michigan the son of William and Naomi (Evans) Fruin. Russell was a 1945 graduate of Battle Creek Central High School and then enlisted in the U.S. Navy where he was a gunner aboard the USS Pasadena during WWII. Following his discharge, Russell attended Western Michigan University and received an Associate Degree in construction engineering. He then joined the U.S. Air Force where he served two years as a pilot and then four years in the Air National Guard upon his discharge. He had been an estimator for Skidmore Construction and was the Owner/President of Ferguson-Fruin Construction Company. Russell was a member of Cornerstone Community Church and Battle Creek Rotary Club. He enjoyed camping, golf, antique cars, boating, square dancing, traveling with his motorhome and spending time with his family. On July 14, 1956 he was married to Phyllis M. (Charles) in the Congregational Church of Battle Creek. He is survived by his wife, Phyllis; two sons: Charles (Linda) Fruin of Mattawan and David (Kimberly) Fruin of Battle Creek; four grandchildren: Chris, Sarah, Nate, and Alex Fruin. He was preceded in death by his parents, son: Stephen Russell Fruin in 1989 and his sister: Della Bell Miller. The family will receive friends at the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home on Monday from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held 2:00 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home with Rev. Eric Perry and Rev. Dr. Robert L. Zuhl officiating. Interment will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to Lifespan Good Samaritan Hospice or Cornerstone Community Church.
