Arlane Gwendolyn Russell, 70, of East Jordan passed away in her home under the care of her loving sons, July 9, 2017.
  Born in Michigan to Estelle (Miesczur) and Gwendon Hott, she grew up in Detroit, graduating from public schools there.
  On March 3, 1964, she married her beloved Clifford Russell of Detroit. Raising five boys they loved in word and deed until they could fend for themselves, they often did without to achieve this goal. The family moved to East Jordan in 1975, where Arlane lived upon and loved the land where her family had been built. One rock of their foundation, Arlane gave of herself so they might thrive.
  Upon Clifford’s passing in 1993, she began a second journey while continuing as matriarch, attending college classes and working in various professional positions until recent retirement. She was a proud and gifted student, a hard-working and loving mother, a loyal and productive colleague.
  Besides her family, she loved her friends and her contributions to community. A long-standing member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, her faith guided her to the end. She spoke fondly of her wonderful friends of the Red Hatters, the EJ Garden Club, the unofficial EJ Community Pool Club, her bridge partners and friendly foes. Prior to this, she was a dedicated member of the Lioness Club.
  Arlane thrived on the bowling lanes, briskly walked the EJ streets, and watched her sons and grandchildren play the sport of the season. More recently, she developed a love for painting, first acrylic, then watercolor, relishing friendships she made. She also volunteered many hours to Good Samaritan Family Services. To relax, she loved to watch the Red Wings, Tigers and Lions.
  Arlane is survived by sons Timothy Edward (Walled Lake), David Matthew (EJ), Patrick Steven (EJ), Clifford Lawrence and wife, Stephanie (Shepherd), Sean Michael (EJ) and 11 grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and brother Lanny.
  Funeral Mass will be Thursday, July 13 at 11:00 AM at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Rev. Fr. Chet Collins will officiate with interment following at St. Joseph Calvary Cemetery. Family welcomes friends to Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. for visitations from 4:00-8:00 PM on Wednesday, rosary services held from 7:30-8:00 PM.
  Memorial contributions can be made to American Cancer Society and Good Samaritan Family Services, 9746 Main Street, Ellsworth, MI 49729.

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