Russell Flinta
Moro | Save
Russell L. Flinta, 75, of Moro, passed away on Saturday, July 20, 2024, at his home with his family by his side.
He was born on February 20, 1949, in Cleveland, OH, the son of Lloyd P. and Ruby (Osterlund) Flinta. Russell married Christine M. Clemens-Snell on September 10, 1981 in Williamsburg, VA.
Russell's adventurous spirit led him to the Merchant Marines, with whom he would travel the world. He was a proud Veteran of the US Navy, having served during the Vietnam War.
Russ worked as an industrial electrician at Caterpillar and Ford Motor Company. From 2004 until his retirement in 2016, Russell served as senior instructor of Residential and Commercial Electricity at American Trade School in St. Louis. He was a member of the United Auto Workers Union and the Antique and Classic Boat Society. He enjoyed traveling, boating, woodworking, photography, fishing, and shooting pool.
Alongside his wife, Christine, Russ operated Flinta Antiques for 40 years, specializing in the sale, restoration and preservation of primitive antique furniture. Russell was a lifelong boating enthusiast, pairing his woodworking and mechanical talents to restore classic wooden boats and motors. He was a US Civil War historian, an audiophile, short story author, humanitarian, and a life-long Cleveland Browns fan. Above all, Russell was a loving husband, devoted father, and especially proud, loving grandfather.
Along with his wife, Christine, he is survived by a son, Erik (Araceli) Flinta; three granddaughters, Darina, Romina, and Caidence all of Alpharetta, GA; and a sister, Margie (Joseph) Peterson of Geneva, OH.
Russell was a kind and generous man, whose infectious enthusiasm for lie touched everyone who knew him. He never met a stranger, but truly valued the company of his family, friends, and students.
Russell was preceded in death by his parents.
The family will host a memorial service at a later date.
Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto is assisting the family with final wish preparations.
Please direct any donations or memorials to the ALS Foundation.
Online condolences and guestbook may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.
Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home
