Russell Merrifield, 64, of Champaign passed away at 3:23 p.m., Tuesday, November 22, 2011 at Provena Covenant Medical Center, Urbana. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, November 29, 2011 at Renner-Wikoff Chapel, 1900 S. Philo Rd., Urbana. Pastor Randy Boltinghouse will officiate. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be at Woodlawn Cemetery, Urbana.

Mr. Merrifield was born in Champaign on June 5, 1947. His parents, Alma and Francis Merrifield, survive. Also surviving are brothers; Carl Merrifield, of San Francisco, Kevin Merrifield (Lisa), of Champaign, sisters; Diana Stauffer (Jim), of Omaha, Nebraska, Saundra Gardner (John), of Goshen, Indiana, Karen Baer (Dale), of Springville, Utah, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Russell earned the distinction of serving both in the United States Army and Navy. He enjoyed his job at the Champaign Home Depot, where he worked for four years. Throughout his life he always enjoyed music and theater, and was involved in the Parkland College Chorus and more. Russell was an altruist at heart, and selflessly donated his time and income to various charities. He was deeply loved and will be missed by his friends and family.

Memorial Contributions may be made in Russell's honor to Community Elements. Condolences may be offered online at www.renner-wikoffchapel.com.