Russell Carter

Russell Carter, 81, passed away on June 30, 2024 at the VA Hospital in Des Moines.

Russell Lloyd Carter, along with his twin sister Roslyn were born in Fairmount, Indiana on September 27, 1942. Proud parents were Dr. Homer D. and Geraldine Carter. As twins sometimes do, Russ and Roslyn developed their own language which nobody else could understand, so when starting school they were placed in separate classes.

Following high school graduation, Russ attended William Penn College in Oskaloosa, Iowa where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Education. His first teaching job was in Blakesburg, Iowa where he taught industrial Arts/Shop.

While attending William Penn, Russell met Janice Bierman who he later married in 1962. Russ’ son, Mark Lloyd Carter, was born June 26, 1964.
Russ, being drawn toward serving his country, enlisted into the United States Navy on July 26, 1967. Education and training included AOA School, AO Maintenance CRS, VP Weapons Load School and was Helicopter Gunner Qualified. He served in the Vietnam War with the prestigious Seawolves Helicopter Attack (Light) Squadron Three, HA(L)-3, a newly established unit which opened a new chapter in Naval aviation history. He finished his service July 16, 1971, but maintained active participation with the Seawolf Association until his passing. He earned the “National Defense Service Medal”, “Air Medal”, “Vietnam Service Medal”, and “Vietnam Campaign Medal”. On Russ’ return to Iowa, he worked as a salesman with Essex Group, whom he worked with for thirty plus years.

Russ and Virginia (Ginny) met in 1982 and married in 1983, making him a step-father to Angeline Michelle Fusari (Ginny’s daughter). Then shortly thereafter, Stephanie Erin Carter was born in 1984.

Russ was an amazing father, and was excited to attend anything the children were involved in. One of his favorites was the Betty Hill Dance Recital, and making sure we had the best seats by sitting outside the Civic Center for hours, so he could be one of the first in. He would help set up sound equipment when someone asked his daughter Stephanie to sing at an event, and could be found dancing with her to a Rock and Roll song during a song break in State Fair performances. He also worked with the Lincoln Railettes and Show Choir, racing to be the one to grill the meat for the fundraiser at the Cubs Picnics before the game.

Russ had four grandsons, Dustin Harter, Devin Harter, Tommy Riley and Quinton Riley and four granddaughters, Leighton Randles, Averly Randles, Finley Randles and Evelyn Randles.

Russ was well loved from the time he came into our lives until God called him home, and beyond. Our family attended Fort Des Moines Church of Christ where Russ was baptized. We thank you Lord for this man.

Russell is survived by his sister Roslyn R. McCarty (Bob), son Mark Lloyd Carter (Susan), daughter Stephanie Erin Randles (Wesley), and stepdaughter Angeline Michelle Riley (Eric).

Russell is preceded in death by his loving parents, mother Geraldine Lloyd and father Homer D. Carter.

Family will be greeting friends Tuesday, July 9, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Hamilton’s Southtown Funeral Home, 5400 SW 9th Street. Funeral service will be held Wednesday, July 10th at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Russell will be laid to rest with military honors Wednesday at 12:30 p.m. at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Fort Des Moines Church of Christ or the Wounded Warriors in loving memory of Russell.

Condolences may be expressed at www.Hamiltonsfuneralhome.com.

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