CLINTON — Russel A. Van Orman, 92, of Clinton,, passed away at 12:50 p.m. on November 6, 2023, at the Arc at Normal, Normal, Ill.

Graveside services with military honors will be held at 3:15 p.m. on Thursday, November 9, 2023, at Oak Park Cemetery, Clinton, with Pastor Nick Blacklidge officiating. Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, is in charge of arrangements.

Memorial may be directed to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Russel was born on April 12, 1931, in Chicago, Ill., the son of Harry O. and Margaret I. (Moran) Van Orman. He married Eileen Followell on August 14, 1954, in Clinton.

Survivors include his wife, Eileen Van Orman, Clinton,; children, Vickie Reynolds, Bloomington, IL; Jeff (Jan) Van Orman, Union Grove, Ala.; Valorie (Eric) Rempe, Clinton; six grandchildren:  Ryan Reynolds, Seth Reynolds, Brian Rempe, Alex Rempe, Andrew Rempe, and Kathleen Van Orman; seven great-grandchildren:  Scarlett Rempe, Graham Rempe, Otto Rempe, Hayden Rempe, Gage Reynolds, Grady White, and Taylor Hennessy; five great-great-grandchildren also survive. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, and one sister, Rovenia M. Moles.

Russel served in the U.S. Marine Corps for three years, including one in Korea obtaining the rank of Sergeant.  He worked at Illinois Central Gulf for 10 years before retiring from Firestone in Decatur, after 30 years of service. 

Russel loved Blue Grass music, camping, and giving candy to his friends and family.  Russel volunteered at the Clinton Christian Academy and was known as the “snackman” to the students.

Online condolences may be made at www.calvertmemorial.com