Russell Paul Wascher, 81, of Urbana who has resided at Champaign County Nursing Home for the last four years until he went home to be with the Lord Thursday evening July 31, 2008.

He was born February 19, 1927 in Champaign to Raymond and Nora Kalk Wascher. Ray served nine terms as finisher BA with Local 143. Russell, his father, three brothers, and son Larry represent three generations of union concrete finishers. Russell himself was a member of Local 143 for sixty years. He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers Harold, Bo, and Bernie Wascher; two sisters baby sister Lenora Wascher, Joni Cartwright; his great granddaughter Chelsey Rae; first wife Myrtle Dalton (mother of his children); and Hallie "B" Wascher, his wife of thirty seven years.

He is survived by his daughter Nancy (George) McLaughlin; a son Larry (Paula) Wascher; seven grandchildren Stacey (Kane) Beaumont, Lori Pointer, Jenifer Tarter, Jason (Angie) Wascher, Amy (Tim) Williams, Kelli (Kale) Smith, Kari (Joe) Briggs; twelve great grandchildren Paige, Brandon, Kaleb, Brieanne, River, Kelsey, Hannah, Hayley, Grant, Logan, Emiley, and Madi; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Russell enjoyed stock car racing, collecting guns, gardening, and making homemade wine that was often shared with his buddies. One of his final comments was "Tell all my buddies I said Goodbye."

Services will be held 7:00 PM Tuesday, August 5, 2008 at Bible Baptist Church 4001 W. Kirby Champaign. Renner-Wikoff Chapel 1900 S. Philo Rd. Urbana is handling the arrangements. Condolences may be offered at renner-wikoffchapel.com.