Russ was born in Bremerton, Washington, the firstborn child of his late parents, Mary Elizabeth (Shappee) Frye and Russell Marion Frye II. He grew up in Tacoma, Washington, and graduated from Stadium High School, carrying with him a lifelong love of learning and service. After earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Animal Sciences from Washington State University, Russ answered a call to serve his country by joining the United States Air Force.

After completing Officers’ Training School, Russ went on to serve ten years as an Electronics Warfare Officer attached to the 325th Bombardment Squadron, 92nd Bombardment Wing aboard the B-52 Bomber at Fairchild Air Force Base in Spokane, Washington. While at Fairchild, Russ earned a reputation as one of the Wing’s most outstanding electronics officers, known for his exceptional skill, steady leadership, and unwavering professionalism. His consistently superior performance led to his being selected to represent the Wing in the 1982 Strategic Air Command bombing competition – an honor reserved for the very best in their field. After fulfilling further assignments and attaining a Master’s Degree in Aeronautical Sciences, his last mission brought him to Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska to serve on the Joint Strategic Target Planning Staff as Deputy Chief of Operations. Russ retired from the Air Force in 1995 concluding a distinguished career marked by faithful and honorable service.

After sharing years of friendship, Russ and Nancy Young of Plattsmouth, Nebraska, saw their affection grow into love and were married in 2023, beginning a new chapter together full of joy and promise for the future. Russ loved getting his hands in the dirt and found real joy in vegetable gardening, especially through his involvement with Hosanna Lutheran Church’s community garden. A true nature lover, he spent countless hours caring for his wild birds, tending his garden, tinkering with engines and keeping up with his property. He was always happy to share what he knew and whatever he had grown. Russ also loved to travel, read, and enjoyed games that challenged his sharp mind.

Gone before Russ are his sister, Mary Margaret (“Toonie”) Frye of WA and late wife, Sandra L. Frye of NE. He leaves behind his loving and devoted wife, Nancy Frye, step-children: Kristin (Eric Sieh) Young of NE, Derek Yaun of CT, Iris (Ben) Gohn of AZ, and Luke Yaun of CT. Also his brother Paul (Suzanne) Frye of UT, nephew Russell Frye and niece Christine Frye of WA, and niece Kari (Paul) Armour, great niece Bryn Armour, and sister in law, Nancy Chase of WA, cousins John and Jean Gewin of IL, and Irene Chase of TX. Russ will be fondly remembered by his many friends, near and far, as a kind and gentle man, never one to seek attention, honest and generous. A man who always chose to see the good in everyone.

A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at 11 am at Hosanna Lutheran Church in Plattsmouth, NE, officiated by Pastor Jim Spanjers. Preceding the service will be a one hour visitation at 10 am with family at the church. At 2:30 pm, Russ will be laid to rest at the Omaha National Cemetery with full Military Honors.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a memorial donation to the American Cancer Society and/or Hosanna Lutheran Church in Plattsmouth, NE. Funeral Services are entrusted to the Brian P. Harvey Funeral Home of Plattsmouth, NE, www.bpfuneralhome.com.