John Russell Buterbaugh, age 98, of Tracy, formerly of Walnut Grove, MN passed away Saturday, April 8, 2023 at McLaughlin Hospice House in Marshall. Funeral Services will be 2:00 p.m. on Friday, April 14 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Walnut Grove. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday. Interment will be in the Walnut Grove Cemetery in Walnut Grove. Memorials are preferred in lieu of flowers. Online condolences may be sent at www.stephensfuneralservice.com. Stephens Funeral Service – Walnut Grove Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
John Russell Buterbaugh was born to Henry C. and Susie (Good) Buterbaugh in North Hero Township, Redwood County, MN on March 26, 1925. He attended Country #21 School through 8th grade. Russell served our country during WWII in the Army from 1944 to 1946. He was stationed in the Philippine Islands and spent a year stationed in Japan. After returning home, he farmed with his father. Russell married Evelyn Freeburg on May 29, 1947 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Walnut Grove. He served the Walnut Grove community as a charter member of the Walnut Grove Lions Club. Russell was a clerk for Springdale Township for several years and was an American Legion member. He and Evelyn enjoyed traveling, visiting every state except Alaska. They spent many winters in Arizona. Even after retirement, Russell continued to come to the farm to help his son-in-law and grandson until he was unable. The last 12 years, Russell and Evelyn lived in O’Brien Court in Tracy. Russell enjoyed fishing. He spent time at Lake Ida and later had a spot on Lake Shetek. In his later years, Russell loved to go on pontoon rides. Russell especially loved spending time with friends and family.
Russell is survived by Evelyn, his wife of nearly 76 years; children: Cozette (Robert) Sanderson of CT, Kay (James) Ostgaard of Rochester, MN, and Kris (George) Landuyt of Tracy; grandchildren: Greg (Kara), Tim (Heather), Jeff (Liz), and John Sanderson; Kyle (Soyoung Lim) Ostgaard, Michael (Kari) Landuyt, and Michelle (Erik) Metcalf; 11 great grandchildren; sister Marita Reed of FL; and many other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parent Henry & Susie Buterbaugh, 1 brother and 4 sisters.