Russell Coder

Russell Eugene Coder passed away at his home in Zillah on Tuesday, May12th. Russ was preceded in death by Ilene, his wife of 55 years. He was born in Ulysses, Kansas to Alfred and Jessie Coder on February 21, 1927. His childhood years were spent in Granger. After his service in the Korean War; he was introduced by his brother’s fiancé to Ilene Mull. Russ and Ilene were married in 1953 and began their family life together in Zillah, later in Toppenish. They moved to the Renton area in 1967. Russ was a skilled carpenter and built two homes for his family; one in Renton and the other in Zillah. He enjoyed fishing, camping, and gardening. He treasured his family and friends. Russ and Ilene returned to Zillah to retire in 1992 although he never completely retired. He was always helping someone put on a new roof, building a porch, or supervising to insure projects were done to his high standards. He is survived by daughters; K. Gayle Coder of Zillah, Connie Johansen of Port Orchard, Pam Bartz of Zillah, and Jeanette Ross of Cibolo, Texas. He has 4 grandsons, 4 grandaughters, and 10 great-grand children. Russ was a devoted husband, father, grandpa and great papa. Russ was dearly loved and will be greatly missed. Visitation will be Friday May, 15th, from 4-7pm at Valley Hills Funeral Home in Zillah. A memorial service will be at 12 pm on Saturday May 16th, at the Zillah Church of the Nazarene. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.valleyhillsfh.com. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Russell Coder, please visit our flower store.