Russell J. Snodgrass

Russell Joseph Snodgrass, 74, of La Grande, died April 6 at Grande Ronde Hospital in La Grande.

His funeral service will begin at
2 p.m. Saturday at First Christian Church in La Grande. Burial will be at Island City Cemetery.

Russ was born Dec. 13, 1936, twin son of William and Mildred (Courtney) Snodgrass. He grew up in the Grande Ronde Valley, graduating from La Grande High School. He attended Eastern Oregon State College and the University of Oregon, earning a master's degree that led to a successful career in education - first as teacher, then principal and then superintendent.

He served his country in the U.S. Navy and received an honorable discharge in 1959 with the rank of Electrician's Mate 2nd Class.

Russ married Janice Ann Young and they enjoyed 45 years of marriage together. Russ enjoyed hunting, fishing and running. His favorite activity was spending time with his grandchildren. He was very active in sports - he ran in marathons and coached basketball, football and track and field. He was a member of the First Christian Church and the National Rifle Association.

Survivors include his daughters, Robyn Kaye Moore and Heidi Jo Talbert of La Grande; brother, Ross Snodgrass of Athena; and eight grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Janice; parents; brother, William Snodgrass; and his sister, Barbara Rothwell.

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