Russell Luepnitz Sr. Russell G. Luepnitz Sr., 65, of West Bend, Wisconsin, passed away at home, surrounded by his family, Monday, April 20, 2009.

He was born November 1, 1943, the son of Willard and Lillian (nee Page) Luepnitz in Pontiac. He grew up in Moran.

After his education, Mr. Luepnitz joined the United States Navy and served honorably during the Vietnam era. Upon his return, he dedicated his skill to working in the tool and die industry.

He married Susan Faith Trader October 11, 1979, and they began a family of their own.

Mr. Luepnitz enjoyed camping, nature, and being a "jack of all trades." Above all, he loved being with his grandchildren.

He survived by his wife, Susan; five children and their families, Russell and Karen Luepnitz of Winfield, Alabama, Shelly and David Waala of West Bend, Paula and Todd Carlton of Kewaskum, Wisconsin, Stephanie and Todd Kirst of Kewaskum, and Darrell and Ashley Luepnitz of Indianapolis, Indiana; 17 grandchildren, Richard, Erika, Quinton, Harrison, Madeline, Hayden, Elijah, Keaton, Mia-Faith, Jordan, Andrew, Tyler, Trevor, Austin, Cody, Christian, and Mackenzie; three siblings and their families, Patricia and Joe Thibault, Judy Krell and Marcel Pozlin, and Thomas and Linda McLeod; two step-sisters, Kristine McLeod and Rebecca Hanssen, and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. He is also survived by his dear friends, John and Mary Schmidt, special coworkers at Seaquist Closures, and a friend, Kim McLaughlin of Horizon Home Hospice.

He was preceded in death by his parents and an infant son, Bryan Luepnitz.

Visitation with family and friends was Friday, April 24, at the Phillip Funeral Home in West Bend from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. A funeral followed Friday at the funeral home at 7 p.m., with Pastor Matt Hadley of Stillwaters Community Church officiating. Interment will take place Saturday, April 25, at 10 a.m. at Washington County Memorial Park in West Bend, with full military honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Chix-4-ACause, PO Box 871, West Bend, Wisconsin 53095 or www.chix 4acause.org.