Russell Paul Wingerd

Russell Paul Wingerd

Russell Paul Wingerd, 82, passed away April 14th 2020 at his home of 30 years near Palmer, Alaska from natural causes.

A potluck gathering to celebrate Russell’s life will be held on his 83rd birthday Saturday May 9th, around 3:00 at Melanie’s, masks please; call 745-8096 for information. A graveside service with full military honors will be held later this summer at the Fort Richardson Cemetery due to the virus. Arrangements entrusted to Kehl’s Palmer Mortuary.

He was born May 9th, 1937 in Winner, South Dakota to Helen (Hughes) and Roy Wingerd. Russell excelled in sports, including welterweight Golden Gloves champion of Western SD. He lettered in football, basketball, and track at Winner High School, graduating in 1955.

He worked as a cowboy ranching and rodeoing until he joined the Marines in 1957. Russell was a proud Marine. After his honorable discharge he went into the bar business for a few years. He married Darlene Shriner and they had a daughter, Marilyn, but later divorced.

In 1973 Russell came to Alaska to join his brother Jim working on the North Slope. Over the years he worked several positions for different companies on the Slope. He also drove truck and operated heavy equipment around Alaska. In 1975 Russell met the love of his life, Cynthia Kornegay, they remained together 45 years.

Russell was a kind and honorable man, with a great sense of humor. Friendly, honest, humble, funny, patient, and stubborn, Russell earned the love and respect of friends and family.

Russell is survived by Cindy, his soulmate; daughter Marilyn; brother Jim; in-laws Gary and Buena (Kornegay) Custer; many beloved nieces and nephews; and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters Kay Froslie, and Fern Brickman; and several old friends.

Please see full obituary on legacyalaska.com