Russell John Lindemann, age 69 of Rockford, passed away Tuesday, January 30, 2018. He was preceded in death by his parents Fred and Mary Lindemann. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Barbara; children Michael (Jenna) Lindemann, Becky (Marc) Miedema; grandchildren Charlie, Mallory, and Tessa Lindemann, Jovie and Henry Miedema; and brother Richard Lindemann. Russell grew up in New York playing stickball on the streets of North Merrick, Long Island. He graduated from his beloved University of Notre Dame in 1970 with a degree in economics. In 1972, he married his college sweetheart and started a family in Cleveland, Ohio shortly thereafter. He spent his entire distinguished career in the insurance industry, which led him to Grand Rapids in 1980, where he eventually retired in 2014. He dedicated 14 years to running the Notre Dame Club of Grand Rapids annual golf outing, raising funds for local scholarships. He was a true Notre Dame fan – his profound love and enthusiasm for his alma mater was unending. Russ will always be remembered as a generous and loving husband, father, brother and grandpa. His genuine love of people and his unique gift – the ability to nurture his friendships, to stay in touch, and to keep people connected – is what made him so special. He had an uncanny ability to make people feel good about themselves. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, April 28, 11:00 a.m. at St. Robert of Newminster Catholic Church, 6477 Ada Dr. S.E., Ada. Rev. Leonard Sudlik presiding. The family will meet with friends and relatives one hour prior to the Mass at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to the Notre Dame Club of Grand Rapids, 4831 Paramont Dr. N.E., Grand Rapids, MI 49525.
