Obituary of Russell Evert Slates III

Russell Evert Slates, III was born in Van Wert, Ohio on October 8, 1963 to parents LaDonna (Stepelton) and Russell Slates, Sr.  He took his final journey into the light to be reunited with loved ones and his Lord on December 23, 2018.

Russell grew up in Ohio, Texas and then Florida and later settled in Oklahoma.  Russ enjoyed outdoor activities, making Florida a favorite.  Russ moved to Pennsylvania when he got married and later came back to Oklahoma. He worked as a chief engineer for the hotel Crown Plaza.  Russ enjoyed fishing, hunting and riding motorcycles.  He even rode a bull once.  He always had lots of energy and could always be counted on to help someone in need.  He believed that it was part of his purpose to help those around him.  He would help a stranger change a tire, distribute water when it was hot or just listen when his friends needed advice.  Russ was also exceptionally determined.  After an accident causing his leg to break in multiple places, requiring surgery and implementation of a rod in his bone, he worked hard to ensure he could walk with just minimal limp when he was tired.  He even became a black belt in Tai Kwon Do, winning multiple competitions after the injury. Russ was a prankster.  He loved teasing and often called his family with a silly story about winning the lottery, the police chasing him or some other tall tale.  Everyone liked Russ. He made friends wherever he went.

Russell was preceded in death by his father Russell E. Slates, Sr. and his brother Lee Alan Russell.  He is survived by his mother LaDonna Heffner who was his care taker and advocate throughout his illness.  He is also survived by his children Thomas Slates, Jacob Slates and Larissa Slates; his only granddaughter Devyn; siblings Diana Slates, Betty Robey, Debra Binkley and Brenda Fout and her husband Allen; as well as many other family members and friends.  Memories of Russ will long live in the hearts of his family and friends who loved him.

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