Russell Edward Hann

Russell Edward Hann, age 74 of Clearlake, passed away on March 11, 2009. He was born on May 24.1934 in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. Russell's slogan was: “To have  the last word first." He wanted his life to show the world exactly how he lived it and for each experience to reflect the man whom he was. Russell wanted his obituary to bring comfort to his loved ones and wrote these words.

 "His life was an example to all that knew him. He was committed to his wife, faith, family and community. He loved gardening, traveling, writing books, keeping records, stamp collecting, old records, taking photos and fixing old furniture. He was an inventor of many things and created "Baby Grape" (a former Napa mascot), Russell's trees and soapstone sculptures.

He worked as a warehouse supervisor (an employee of Shop 106) at Mare Island Naval shipyard in Vallejo for  9 years. He set up Ruff and Ready Island for G.S.A. in Stockton, was a packer at Oakland Army Base in Oakland, a weight master at the Oakland Naval Supply Center, was a water pollution control inspector in San Leandro, worked in two gold mines, was a powder man and worked for many home builders: K and B,  Presley, Silva Concrete Repair and various housing tracts. He was an ordained Deacon of the First Presbyterian Church Of Alameda.  He said: It's funny how close you get to your parents and God when you get close to Death". His legacy to all is "Be happy, live each day to the fullest, love one another 'Like Nobody's Business!!' and pray for 'what you want out of life."

His children remember that he was a volunteer fireman and that his claim to fame was that he saved seven lives and six puppies! He also served for seven years as the national representative for the American Federation of Government Employee's union.

Russell was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 53 years: Shirley Ann Hann, his parents: Russell Otto Hann and Edith Kate Burt; two siblings: Richard J. Hann and Adeline V. Long; a granddaughter: Crissy Joe Perez.

He is survived by seven ""Hann" children: Martha Jane, Russell Scott, John Edward, Sabrina Gay, Sandra Annette, Jeffery Blane and David Bennette; 20 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren and his brother: Rick O. Hann.

His family gathered for private viewing and services and it was Russell's wish that he be cremated and that his ashes be scattered by his family along with those of his wife's in a place they both loved.

In lieu of flowers, be requested that any donations be given to his family to help pay for his funeral services.