Russell Lowell Best

Memorial service for Russell Lowell Best, 68, Lawrence, will be held June 29, 2019 at 10:00am at Warren-McElwain Mortuary. He was called to rest June 22, 2019.

He was born on June 11, 1951 in Kearney, Nebraska, the son of Fred Henry Sr. and Marjorie Helen (Welch) Best.

Russell was a High School teacher. He taught American History, World Geography, and other AP History classes. He also coached high school volleyball for many years. He was a passionate Nebraska Cornhusker fan, and loved discussing politics, religion, and history. He was an avid bicyclist and reader.

Survivors include his wife, Lisa Miller, Wichita; his daughters, Angela Johnson, Lawrence, and Deann Heidel, Washington; brother, Fred Best (Barb), Nebraska; sister, Opal May Ostrom, Missouri; and two grandchildren, Madeline and Erik Johnson.

Memorial contributions may be made in his name to Visiting Nurses Hospice or Great Lakes Hospice and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.

12 Condolences

  1. Judy Brown on June 26, 2019 at 10:21 pm

    Heartfelt Sympathy to all. You are all in my prayers during this difficult time.
    God Bless.
    Rest in Peace Uncle Russell. ❤



  2. Cathy Clark Lawson on June 27, 2019 at 10:26 am

    Condolences to the Family. So sad to hear of Russell passing.
    Went to school with Russ, Kindergarten through High School. Good Kid, I will remember him always!
    May God Bless and Carry You Through this difficult Time.
    Sincerely, Cathy Clark Lawson



  3. Amber on June 27, 2019 at 3:20 pm

    Rest in Peace Uncle Russell. You will Truly be Missed. You were one of the Greats! My Prayers and Love are with you Aunt Lisa.
    Sincerely,
    Amber Dawn



  4. Kindra Rowley on June 27, 2019 at 3:23 pm

    He was my teacher around 33 years ago. I remember him as a very kind man and coach. May he rest in peace.



  5. Lori on June 27, 2019 at 3:59 pm

    Angela and Deann & family, We send our sincere condolences at this difficult time. May you find solace in your many memories and the love you held for your dad.

    God bless you with his comfort and peace, Love, David and Lori Klone



  6. Patti Neace on June 27, 2019 at 6:35 pm

    So sorry, Lisa and family. Sending prayers for peace and comfort!



  7. Jackie Swanson on June 27, 2019 at 7:01 pm

    I met Russ in Pueblo, CO where he volunteered for a Literacy program at the library. He was so good with the high school student. He was a good friend and perfect volunteer. We had long discussions and laughed a lot. He was looking forward to coming home!
    God Bless you and Rest In Peace.
    Jackie Swanson



  8. Gini Johnson on June 28, 2019 at 7:25 am

    I am so sorry that the world has lost Russ — a loss that began when education lost Russ to a cancer diagnosis long before he was ready to retire. He was such a special teacher and person. We were colleagues and became good friends when he was earning his Master’s via the Teaching American History grant in Wichita. His delight in meeting and studying with renowned historians was infectious. He had so much more to contribute to students. After such a long battle with cancer, may he rest in peace. He will be remembered.



  9. Jan Dunlap on June 28, 2019 at 8:54 am

    My late husband, Ken Dunlap, taught with Russell at East High, and we became friends with he and Lisa. Perhaps Russell and Ken are reconnecting in Heaven. My deepest sympathy to the family.



  10. Vicki Churchman on June 28, 2019 at 9:10 am

    Russ was a good man and a creative teacher. He battled the Big C long and hard, but usually with outwardly good spirits.



  11. Terri (Ingram) McKean on June 28, 2019 at 4:45 pm

    Heartfelt condolences on Russell’s passing. Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers.



  12. Alyson Taylor-Smith on June 28, 2019 at 5:43 pm

    Sorry to hear about the passing of Russ. He coached me for several years in club volleyball in Wichita (about 25 years ago) and I’ve always had fond memories of him. I remember I thought it was so special that he came to my high school graduation party and brought me a special made volleyball shirt as a gift. Prayers to his family and loved ones.



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