Obituary of Daryl Jospeh Russell

Daryl Joseph Russell, age 77, of Bay City, Michigan, passed away peacefully on April 28, 2026, surrounded by love—holding the hands of his devoted wife of 56 years while encircled by his immediate family.

Daryl was born on August 27, 1948, in Bay City, Michigan, to Melvin Joseph Russell and Irene Anna (Heckman) Russell. He attended Visitation Catholic School in Bay City and went on to build a dedicated career as a Tool and Die Maker for 40 years. He later worked as a Realtor and Machining Quality Inspector before retiring to focus on what mattered most to him—time with his wife, his family, and making memories at their cabin on Little Long Lake in Hale.

Daryl married the love of his life, Sue, on August 30, 1969, beginning a beautiful partnership that spanned 56 years and was the foundation of his greatest joys.

Daryl was a man who lived fully and loved deeply. He had a gift for writing heartfelt poems to his wife, Sue, and found joy in the simple and meaningful moments—golfing with his wife, sons, and grandchildren; fishing and fishing tournaments; deer hunting; being a member of the Saginaw Bay Walleye Club for many years; building and construction projects; and cheering on his grandchildren at hockey, football, basketball, and swim events. He was a loyal fan of the Detroit Lions, enjoyed watching and attending PGA golf events, singing karaoke with friends at the Hale Eagles Club, and loved being outdoors—whether grilling, accidentally diving in the lake, or relaxing on the pontoon with friends. Known for his competitive spirit, he especially enjoyed winning euchre tournaments, a good game of cornhole, and even had a well-known appreciation for roundabouts.

He will be remembered for his loving heart, quick wit, and the way he always seemed to know exactly what to say. He was honest and real—never one to sugarcoat things—but always delivered with kindness. Daryl was often the life of the party, known for his humor, his stories, and his unforgettable presence. He loved all things space—from northern lights and eclipses to watching a space shuttle launch off the Florida coast—and dancing only when Sue made him. They especially loved being the longest-married couple on the dance floor at weddings—a reflection of the life and love they built together, and a tradition they proudly passed on to their children. He chased the elusive hole-in-one throughout his life, though he never let anyone forget that Sue beat him to it.

Daryl is survived by his beloved wife Sue; his children, Brian Russell, Marc (Holly) Russell, and Kevin (Nikki) Russell; his cherished grandchildren, Addison and Noah Russell; his sister, Janice Russell; sister-in-law, Peggy Stark; brother-in-law, Dick (Jeannine) Misener; and his many close and cherished friends, especially those on Little Long Lake, with whom he shared a lifetime of memories and friendship.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Irene Russell; many aunts and uncles; his in-laws, Richard and Tudie Chevalier; and his grandson, Benjamin Joseph Russell.

Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Daryl will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
We love you, Daryl. XOXOXO.

"My last fifty years, have been the best of my life, I know that it's all because, I chose you for my wife. I will love you forever - Daryl."   To sign the online guestbook, visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com  Arrangements made with the Cremation Society of Mid Michigan.