Russell V. McGregor

Russell V. McGregor, of Plainwell peacefully passed away on Tuesday, January 9, 2024 at the age of 85. Russell was born on June 27, 1938, in Barton City, MI. He was the son of Donald and Minerva (Sanborn) McGregor.

Russ married his first love, Shirley, in 1955 and they were happily married for 59 years. Together, they had four children.  The family moved to Pine Lake in the early 1960s where they raised their children and enjoyed the many pleasures of lake living.  Russ and Shirley had lots of adventures and enjoyed travelling and spending time at their cabin up north.  Upon retirement, Russ and Shirley had fun camping and exploring the US in their motorhome until they settled on the little town of Mission, TX in the Rio Grande Valley.  They spent the next twenty years wintering in South Texas where they enjoyed the weather and had a great group of friends and family.  Russ was a big guy with a huge heart and generally loved all people.  He never met a stranger and welcomed everyone in for a visit or a meal.

Russ started his career as a large equipment Master Mechanic for Shinville Associates and became a member of the Operating Engineers Local 324 in 1964.  Russ went on to become a Business Agent with the Operating Engineers Local 324 in 1969 where he flourished in his profession.  He successfully ran for the union board where he served in different positions ending up as Vice President.  Russ had a well-deserved retirement in 1998.

Russ leaves behind his beloved companion, Janice Strong; Children; Cindy (Troy) Sage, Lori (Bernie) Vanderploeg and Todd (Patricia) McGregor.  He also leaves behind, Grandchildren; Russell and Melissa Sage, Amanda (Marc) Wesler, Rusty (Ashley) McGregor and Dylan (Alyson) McGregor.  Great Grandchildren; Bo Wesler, Owen, Claire and Archie McGregor, Shaelyn and Rowyn McGregor.  Bonus children; Nanette (Dave) Schuur, Steve Strong, Tami (Mike) Rimes, Kathy (Jeff) Gebhart, Jeff (Dara) Strong, Paul (Rachel) Strong and Karen Strong.

Russ was predeceased in death by his wife Shirley, daughter Mickie and parents Donald and Minerva McGregor.

Cremation has taken place.  A celebration of life gathering will take place at a later date.  Donations may be made in honor of Russ at:

Shriners Children's, Attn Processing Center, PO Box 947765, Atlanta, Georgia 30394.  Online at www.lovetotherescue.org/memorial-gifts/ or by phone at 1-844-739-0849

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Russell's guestbook and/or share a memory with his family.

The McGregor family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home, 120 South Woodhams, Plainwell, MI 49080 (269)685-5881.