Russell Eugene Lanier

Russell “Russ” Eugene Lanier

Proud Vietnam Veteran -

Russell “Russ” Eugene Lanier, age 73, of Mechanicsburg, and formerly of Point Pleasant, WV, passed away with his wife by his side on Wednesday, November 16, 2016, following his courageous battle with health issues he developed as a result of his exposure to Agent Orange while serving in Vietnam.  Russ was born on Monday, July 5, 1943, in Nitro, WV, to the late Woodrow Wilson Lanier and Margaret Marie (Dowell) Lanier.  In addition to his parents, Russ is preceded in death by his brother, Woodrow Wilson Lanier, Jr.

Russ’s survivors include his loving wife of 46 years, Yvonne “Cookie” Samantha (Cook) Lanier; his son, Kevinn Zacharie Lanier and his wife, Jamie, of Mechanicsburg; his grandsons: Brennan Tyler Lanier, Kieran Riley Lanier; and several cousins including Belinda Wymer, with whom he was particularly close.

Russ graduated from Point Pleasant High School as part of the class of 1961.  He proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War where he was combat wounded and received a Purple Heart.  Russ served as crew chief on the Huey UH-1 gun ship during that time.  He retired from the Naval Ships Parts Control Center in Mechanicsburg in 2004, after 20 years of service.  Russ was a lifelong member of the United Methodist faith.  He was a past commander of the VFW Memorial Post 6704, member of the American Legion Post 109, and life member of the VFW and the Disabled American Veterans.

Russ loved all types of car racing, such as drag racing, stock car racing, and Formula 1.  He enjoyed watching his two favorite NASCAR drivers, Richard Petty and Jeff Gordon.  Russ also liked classic cars, especially the 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 in blue.  He enjoyed playing billiards and was captain of the VFW Memorial Post 6704 team.  Russ also coached little league baseball for over 13 years.  First and foremost, Russ’s grandsons were the focus of his live.  His entire family was loved by him and they will miss him dearly.

All are welcome to join Russ’s family at his viewing on Tuesday, November 22, 2016, from 10:00 a.m. until time of service at 11:00 a.m. at Myers - Buhrig Funeral Home and Crematory, 37 East Main Street, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055; with Celebrant George Spangler officiating. Russ’s family invites everyone to join them for a time of food and fellowship at The Stage & Studio Café, next door to the funeral home, following the service.  Burial will follow in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery in Annville, where military honors will be presented.  Honored to be pallbearers are Kevinn Lanier, Brennan Lanier, and Kieran Lanier.

Contributions in celebration of Russ’s life can be made to the American Diabetes Association, 301 Chestnut Street, Suite #101, Harrisburg, PA 17101, www.Diabetes.org or to Thank-A-Vet, P.O. Box 36617, Philadelphia, PA 19107, www.ThankAVet.us.

Russ’s family has entrusted his care to Myers – Buhrig Funeral Home and Crematory in Mechanicsburg, (717) 766-3421.  Read Russ’s full obituary, view his memorial video and portrait, and sign his official guest book at www.Buhrig.com .