Russel Gress

Russel Gress, 59, of Center, North Dakota, passed away on Friday, September 6, 2024.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00 p.m., Friday, September 20, 2024, at Weigel Funeral Home in Mandan.

Russ was born on September 8, 1964, in Mandan, North Dakota to Paul and LaVerne Gress. Russ was one of eight children. He was raised on the family farm near Center, North Dakota and attended school at, what is now, Center-Stanton Public School. After high school, he attended NDSCS and was trained as a welder. Russ also served in the Army National Guard for 5 years. Over the years, he was a welder and had a painting and tree removal business - a jack of all trades.

Russ and former spouse, Wendy (O'Connell) Gress had 2 daughters, Erin and Laura, who they adored. They raised their family on a farm just outside of Leonard, ND, where they had various farm animals.

Russ enjoyed fishing, playing the guitar and piano, cheering for the Minnesota Vikings, and spending time with family and friends.

Russ will be deeply missed by his daughters, Erin (Alec) Selnes and Laura Gress (Gunnar Sorensen); significant other, Kelly Conrad; 5 siblings, Leslie (Vivian) Gress, Kelly (Mervin) Emineth, Darla (Daniel) Emineth, Brenda (Joey) Nagel, and Kimberly (Matt) Mason; and a large extended family.

He was preceded in death by his father; mother; two sisters, Beverly Gress and Darlene Gress; and cousin/best friend, Brien Gress.

In lieu of flowers, feel free to make a donation in his name to your favorite charity or cause.