Russell Foch Inman, Sr.

Loving Husband, Father, Grandfather and Great-Grandfather died peacefully Tuesday November 15, 2011 at his daughter Susan's home in Spokane surrounded by his devoted family. Russell Foch Inman, Sr. was born to parents George V. and Blanche D. Inman (Leeper) on November 26, 1918 in Amidon, North Dakota. Russ is preceded in death by his parents, brothers Robert, Richard, and Max, a sister Vera Berge, Son-in-Law James O. Hanson, Grand-Daughter Amy's husband Casey Condon, Niece Virginia Hedlund and Nephews Roger and Tim Inman. Russell graduated High School in Bismarck, ND in 1937. Shortly thereafter he met the love of his life, Helen Novak, and began a life-long love affair that lasted through 69 years of marriage, 4 children, 7 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren with two more on the way. They were married on September 27, 1940 in Camp Polk, Leesville, LA. He was called into active duty in April of 1941 and shipped out to Africa at the beginning of WWII that same year. A Daughter, Sandra K. was born that December. The next 4 years were spent overseas with US Army Company C First Armored Signal Battalion Communications as a Master Sgt. On his return to Bismarck, ND Russell F., Jr. was born. Russ began his schooling at Dickinson State Teachers College. Russ and Helen soon followed other family to Spokane. He finished his education at EWCE and began teaching at Longfellow Elementary in 1950. Two more daughters, Susan Rae (born on his birthday) and Sharon Ann arrived as they settled on Spokane's Northside. They moved to the Spokane Valley in 1962. Russ moved on to Shaw Jr. High retiring in 1977. Russ will be remembered as a gentle spirit, loving, and fiercely loyal with a good sense of humor and a love of family and life. He always said he garnered his compassion and humility from the War, and returned with a renewed sense of honor for all people. Mom and Dad were being cared for in their home by their children for the past several years. After Russ suffered a stroke in July of 2010 he moved in with his daughter Susan and husband Rick. Family members aided in his care. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 69 years, Helen, in 2009. He is survived by his children Sandra Kay Hanson, Spokane, Russell F., Jr. (Joyce) Corvallis, OR, Susan R. Perrenoud (Rick) Nine Mile Falls, Wa., Sharon Ann Ohland (Kent) of Spokane Valley. Grandchildren include: Russell G. Hanson (Lorie), Cheryl A. Gould (Matt), Amy L. Condon (Ron), Michael J. Hanson, (Sally, Seth and Zach), JC Hanson (Claire), Joseph R. Inman (Lauren) and Jessica L. Woods (Travis). Great-Grand Children include: Jordyn, Madison and Karrigen Hanson, JT and Taylor Gould, Jacob Condon, and Sydney, Blake, Brooks, and Anders Hanson. He is also survived by his last living sibling, Earl (Pud) Inman of Ballantine, MT and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. Mom and Dad were great supporters of all of their kids and grandkids, and they loved to meet their gang at the old Trentwood Grange on Saturday Nights to dance! Russell was a hunter, fisherman and horseman. He loved baseball, golfing with the "Water Power Gang", bowling and playing cards especially cribbage with family, friends and his buddy, Mel Hull. He was a member of Chapter 11 of the DAV, the Eagles, an EWU Alum and supported Mom in her Church for 47 years. Visitation to be held at Riplinger Funeral Home, 4305 N. Division Friday Nov 25, 9a - 8p and Saturday Nov 26, 9a - 5p. Graveside Service (in the Church Chapel in case of weather) and Burial with full military honors will take place Monday November 28 at 2:30 pm St. Joseph's Catholic Cemetery 17825 E. Trent Ave, followed by a luncheon and celebration at the Church Hall 4521 N. Arden Rd, Otis Orchards, Washington at 3:30 pm. Interment of Helen Inman will coincide. Cards/Memorials may be sent to 15115 W. Burnett Rd., 9 Mile Falls WA, 99026. Contributions may be made to Hospice of Spokane, 121 S. Arthur, Spokane, WA 99202 or the Charity of your choice. Special thanks to Patricia, Windy, Connie & Debby for Dad's care ......we miss you Dad.....