Russell Eugene Asper

Russell Eugene Asper, age 93, of Red Wing, died Jan. 3, 2014. Russell was born on Oct. 27, 1920 and grew up one of 11 siblings in rural South Dakota, leaving after 2 years of college to see more of the world. He got as far as Washington DC, where he was working for the FBI when the war broke out. Following the bombing of Pearl Harbor, Russ enlisted in the U.S. Navy, flying PBY patrol bombers out of England and North Africa. After peace was declared, Russ ferried planes back to the U.S. until he was discharged in time for Christmas 1945. He spent his working career in the grain and feed business and was a member of the Minneapolis Grain Exchange.

Russ spent his retirement years in Red Wing volunteering and gardening with his wife of 64 years, Geraldine Weiss Asper (Geri), a fifth generation Red Wingite. Russ was a member of the Church of St. Joseph, the Goodhue County Historical Society and Horticultural Society, the Friends of the Library, and the Sheldon Theater, where he and Geri served as ushers. He also volunteered for the home delivered meals program, as a valet parker at the hospital and clinic, and with the Faith in Action program. Russ and Geri were both Master Gardeners and grew flowers, vegetables, and raspberries. Russell is survived by wife Geri, daughter Teresa and son-in-law Joel Anderson, grandchildren Norris and Liv, and many nieces and nephews. Proceeded in death by five brothers and five sisters and an infant daughter.

Mass of Resurrection will be Tuesday, Jan. 7, at 11:00 am at Church of St. Joseph in Red Wing. Visitation will be one hour prior to service. Private interment will be at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Memorials to donor's choice. Online condolences may be sent to www.mahnfamilyfuneralhome.com