Donald Russiff

Donald James Russiff, age 55, passed away in his home surrounded by his wife, children, sister, and special friends after a battle with brain cancer in Harwood, North Dakota on February 18, 2018.

Don was born in Miles City, Montana on May 9, 1962, the son of Nicholas and Montana (Neumann) Russiff.  He was raised on the Russiff Ranch and ranch country, Olive, Montana. He attended Cross S Country School and Kimball Country School.  He then attended junior high and high school in Broadus, Montana, graduating in 1981.  Don then attended Miles Community College and Billings Vo Tech.   He began working at Deluxe Motors on June 17, 1987. He married the love of his life and soul mate, Tanya Schalesky, on August 31, 1996 in Bismarck, North Dakota. They continued to live in Miles City until March of 1998 when they then moved to Fargo, North Dakota, and later Harwood, where they made their home and shared lifelong friendships. He began working for the Cass County Highway Department in 1998 until the time of his passing.

Don was confirmed at the Broadus Lutheran Church and attended the Lutheran Church in Miles City.  Throughout his elementary and high school years he proudly showed livestock as part of his 4-H commitment and attended 4-H camp when he could get away from the busy ranch life. While in highs school at Broadus, he became active in Future Farmers of America (FFA). Activities he continued to participate in with his children. He became a member of the First United Methodist Church in Miles City after his marriage. After his move to Fargo, Don was an avid member of the Flame of Faith United Methodist Church in West Fargo. He faithfully served as trustee for several years as well as other volunteering for a variety of activities. His dedication and commitment to his children and their activities at the Northern Cass School were evident with his attendance to everything from dance and music programs to the Friday night football games and baseball games in all types of weather. NDSU Bison football became the center of many fun gatherings.

Don is survived by his wife Tanya Russiff of Harwood, ND; three children:  Joshua, Jorian and Jana all of Harwood, ND; three sisters:  Sandy (Ric) Rabe of Miles City, MT; Diana (Chris) Elwood of Volborg, MT; and Mary Lou Russiff of Miles City, MT; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.  He was preceded in death by his parents and an infant brother Gary Russiff.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to The Flame of Faith United Methodist Church or Hospice of the Red River Valley.

​North Dakota Services

Visitation: Thursday, Feb. 22, 2018 from 5 to 7 PM with a prayer service at 7 PM at Flame of Faith United Methodist Church, West Fargo, ND.

Funeral: Friday, Feb. 23, 2018 at 10 AM at Flame of Faith UMC with visitation one hour prior.

​Montana Services

Visitation: Monday, Feb. 26, 2018 from 4 to 6 PM at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Miles City, MT

Funeral: Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2018 at 11 AM at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Miles City.

Burial: Custer County Cemetery, Miles City.

​West Funeral Home & Life Tribute Center

westfuneralhome.com

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