Russell C. Higley, age 96 of Stanwood, passed away Saturday, July 7, 2018 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born May 9, 1922 in Bitely, the son of Charles and Grace (Curtis) Higley. Russell married Polly Jacobs on August 11, 1951 and together they raised their family in Stanwood. He was honorably discharged from the United States Army Air Corps after serving his country faithfully during World War II. Russ went directly to work driving truck, for what is currently known as Alvan Frieght, until he retired. He enjoyed going to the Mecosta County Senior Center where he played cards and bingo, and made crafts. Russ liked the outdoors; hunting, fishing, and going up north. He also looked forward to the occasional trip to the casino. Russ was a member of the United Methodist Church in Paris. Two years ago, he was a participant on the Mid-Michigan Honor Flight as a World War II Veteran, which was a very proud moment for him. He loved his family; especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Russ will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He is survived by eight children, Tammy Stillwell of Stanwood, Jim (Sherry) of Stanwood, Sandy (Terry) Holley of Stanwood, Jeff (Barb) of Stanwood, Tom of Morley, Linda (Paul) Kranz of Morley, Gail Hein of Texas, and Dan of Stanwood; 15 grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren and one on the way; two sisters, Betty Reynolds of Traverse City and Gloria Vanderhoof of Owosso; a sister-in-law, Gerri Higley of Morley; and many nieces and nephews. Russ was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Polly in 1991; second wife, Georgia in 2006; daughter, Nancy Higley; and ten siblings. Funeral services will take place 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, July 11, 2018 at the Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids Pastor Kaye Ferguson-Patton officiating. The family will greet friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, July 10th at the Funeral Home. Russell will be laid to rest in Stanwood Cemetery. Memorial contributions in Russells name may be made to the Mecosta County Senior Center or Spectrum Health Hospice. Share a memory or leave a condolence for the family by clicking the guestbook tab at www.daggettgilbertfuneralhome.com Funeral Service Wednesday, July 11, 2018 11:00 AM Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home 13985 Northland Drive Big Rapids,MI 49307