Russell Kotsaris

Russell G. Kotsaris, 80, of Bellefontaine, Ohio, passed away Friday, May 15, 2009, at Mary Rutan Hospital in Bellefontaine. He was born September 2, 1928, the son of the late Pete and Florence (Snapp) Kotsaris.

He is survived by his loving companion, Lois Blair of Bellefontaine, a son; Brent (Lora) Kotsaris of North Lewisburg, Ohio, a step son, Gary Alexander of Huntsville, Ohio; two step daughters; Cathie (Tom) White and Connie Rollins, both of Bellefontaine, a sister; Shirley Lindley of New Carlisle, Ohio, two grandchildren; Joshua and Jordan Kotsaris, several step grandchildren, twenty seven step great-grandchildren, and three step great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Brenda, three brothers; Lester, Guss, and Bill Kotsaris, and a sister, Doris Thompson.

He was a U.S. Army veteran serving during the Korean Conflict, retiring from the Army on Sept. 2, 1988, as a Staff Sergeant. He was awarded the Army Commendation Medal in 1978 and served on the Ohio National Guard Rifle Team. He worked as a mechanic for the City of Bellefontaine and belonged to the Fraternal Order of Eagles, the American Legion Post #173, and the VFW, all of Bellefontaine. He was also a member of National Rifle Association.

The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, May 20, 2009, at 11:00 A.M. at the Eichholtz Funeral Home in Bellefontaine, conducted by Dr. Todd Scoles. Burial with military honors provided by the Logan County Honor Guard will be in Bellefontaine Cemetery following the service. Visitation will be Tuesday, May 19, 2009, at the funeral home from 5:00 P.M. to 8:00 PM.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Logan County Cancer Society P.O. Box 463 Bellefontaine, Ohio 43311.

Condolences to the family may be expressed at www.eichholtzfuneralhome.com

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