Russell Leroy Squires Sr. passed peacefully on the morning of May 8, 2025, at home surrounded by family. Born July 15, 1952, to parents Robert and Esther Squires of Ludington, Michigan. After growing up on various horse farms, Russ graduated from Ferris State College with a Bachelor of Science degree. He married his first wife, Cheryl Squires, in December 1970 and enlisted in the Army due to the Vietnam conflict. Russ proudly served in Germany as an Army SPEC E4 from 1971-1973.

He then returned to the states to raise a family and dedicated his life to the world of horses and Standardbred racing. He also enjoyed hunting, the outdoors, and wildlife. Russ and Cheryl later divorced, and he married Elizabeth "Betsy" Elkerton in September 2017. Russ battled prostate cancer for several years but never let it hold him back. He continuously encouraged others to "Cowboy up" and push through, always eager to spend another weekend hunting.

Russ is survived by his children: son Russell Jr. (Brittany Konkol) Squires, son Kenneth (Stephanie) Squires, daughter Miranda (Cory) Magnus, and son Gordon (April) Squires; grandchildren: Russell III "Trey" Squires, Alyssa (Isaias) Cardenas, Brittany and Gavin Squires, Gwyneth and Garrett Squires, Dakota, John, and Cole Magnus, and Austin Squires; great-grandson Shiloh Cardenas; and siblings: Dr. Lewis (Wanda) Squires, Robert (Judy) Squires, Roberta (Michael) Bezusko, Sheila (Dan) Towson, Michael (Jennifer) Squires, Lori (Ted) Platz, Linda Bentley, Cindy (Nokk) Nguyen, Penny Brown, and Peggy Graves; and step mother: Mary Squires.

Russ was preceded in death by his parents; brothers-in-law Richard Bentley and Steve Pryatt; wife Betsy; and his children who died in infancy: Raquel, Michelle, Jordon, and John.

The funeral will be held on Monday, May 12, 2025, at 1 p.m. at the Barryton Church of Christ, 18221 30th Ave, Barryton, Michigan, 49305, with visitation beginning one hour prior. A luncheon will follow at the Barryton Community Building.

To leave a memory or share a condolence, please visit, www.daggettfuneral.com