Pettijohn, Russell D. 1928-2025 St. Joseph, Mo.

Russell D. Pettijohn, of St. Joseph, died Friday, Sept. 26, 2025, at the age of 96. He was born to Orten and Bertha (Dick) Pettijohn on Dec. 1, 1928, in Grant City, Missouri.

He is survived by his sons, Jeff Pettijohn (Robin) and Brad Pettijohn (Greta); seven grandchildren, Lori O’Neal (Jeff), Jason Pettijohn (Caitlin), Robert Pettijohn (Erin), Renee Pettijohn, Luke Pettijohn, Alex Pettijohn (Elise), and Julia Pettijohn Strawhecker (Ben); nine great-grandchildren; siblings, Joan Elford and Donald Pettijohn; several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 69 years, Glee; his parents; brother, Wesley Pettijohn; and siblings-in-law, Dorothy Pettijohn, Sam Elford, and Lucy Pettijohn.

Russell grew up in St. Joseph and was a 1946 graduate of Lafayette High School. He proudly served his country in the Missouri Air National Guard and the U.S. Air Force, where he attained the rank of sergeant.
He worked for the St. Joseph News-Press as a printer and in other positions for a total of 30 years. He worked for the St. Joseph School District Maintenance Department for 7½ years.

Russell and Glee were proud to be charter members of the Savannah Sashayers Square Dance Club, where they enjoyed dancing for over 40 years. He was a longtime active member of St. Peter Lutheran Church in St. Joseph.

He enjoyed fishing, camping, gardening and working in the yard. Russell and Glee were snowbirds in Texas, Arizona and Florida for many years.

Family was important to Russell, especially time spent with his grandchildren.

Farewell Services and Public Livestream 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, St. Peter Lutheran Church. Interment Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will gather with friends 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. The family suggests memorial contributions to Missouri Right to Life or Mosaic Life Care Hospice.

Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.