Russell Givler

Russell Givler, 79, passed away Friday, October 20, 2023 surrounded by his family. He was born in Kansas City, Kansas to Marvin Givler and Willabelle Barnett (Givler). Russell retired from the City of Albuquerque at the age of 60. He thoroughly enjoyed his retirement. He worked tirelessly on his H/O model railroad. He enjoyed painting the tiny cars and laying the track around the beautiful layout that he had created. He also loved puzzles and got the whole family involved. Russell started his daily routine with coffee, the newspaper and especially the daily Sudoku. He was also an avid football fan and he loved the Kansas City Chiefs. His wife, Ruth, knew not to make reservations on Thursdays, Sundays, or Mondays during football season. Russell loved football so much he continuously beat the entire family in the weekly family football pool, but Ruth always somehow made out with his winnings. The last time he played he won, of course.

Russell had such a fulfilling life. He married his high school sweetheart. Went to college to become a civil engineer. He served his country as a first lieutenant in the US Army during the Vietnam War. He welcomed three daughters and was able to enjoy watching his grandchildren play sports, become adults, begin their careers, get engaged and married, and was lucky enough to welcome his first great grandchild.

Russell (Boy boo) is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Ruth (Girl boo). His children Amber O'Donnell and husband Christopher, Stacy Sanchez and fiancé Douglas, and Toni Maestas. His grandchildren William Sanchez, David Sanchez, Devin O'Donnell and wife Caitlin, Tyra Maestas and fiancé Joshua, Ian O'Donnell and fianceé Lauren and Diego Maestas and great grandchild, Aspen Raye Sanchez. As well as his brother Randall Givler and wife Mary, along with nieces and nephews from Colorado and Texas.

A tribute to Russell from his family that loved him very much :

Our loved one was ill as he was getting ready for bed,

And Jesus was lovingly hovering over his head-

His doctors and nurses had tried their best

to save a man that needed to rest.

Jesus could see that and completed His quest.

He called him home to be at His side-

No more suffering and fighting the tide.

His body was laden with illness and pain,

to remain on this earth, there would be no gain.

Rejoice in the fact that our loved one is well,

That our Savior rescued him from this hell.

He is lovingly cuddled into His arms,

Protected by Jesus from all that harms.

He waits for us to join him someday,

So that we may enjoy thy precious way-

Written by Ruth Givler

A Funeral Service to celebrate Russell's life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, November 10, 2023, at FRENCH- Lomas.

Russell's final resting place will be at The National Cemetery in Santa Fe, New Mexico.