Russell M. (Skip) Heller, USAF (Ret.)'s Obituary
Col. Russell M. (Skip) Heller, USAF (Ret.), born on January 13, 1924 in Madison, NJ, died December 6, 2013 at home in Green Valley surrounded by love with his family. Loving husband of Betty Jean (deceased) for 65 years and father to Dane of Tucson, Bruce of Denver, spouse Leigh (deceased), Kent of Tucson and Maryjean Trosper of Sahuarita, spouse Tim. The world's best grandpa to Jarrod, Kris, Scott, Matthew (Yoli), Kevin, Grayson (Lindsay) and Brice. And very proud great-grandpa to Blade, Cassie, Paul, Noah, Leland and baby Georgia Leigh. Skip had the soul of an aviator and served his nation proudly with honor for 28 years, World War II, Korea, Vietnam and Base Commander of Nato Afcent in Brunssum, the Netherlands highlighting his career. Always direct and honest in his support of our Constitutional Republic against the world's opposing tyrannies, with quick wit, and treating strangers always as a friend, he was a true believer in our nation's freedom and liberty. During his retirement years, Skip and Betty enjoyed traveling extensively through free Europe, Asia and Australia. They loved their yearly trip to Mazatlan, Mexico, and cherished their time spend with family and friends at their cabin in the Chiricahua Mountains in Paradise, AZ. A strong family man and true patriot, he was a man who will be loved and missed by all who knew him. His faith in God and America led his life. His belief: To be born a free man is an accident; to live one, a responsibility; to die one, an obligation. Remembrances can be made to the National Cancer Society or the Wounded Warriors Project. A memorial service is planned for Skip at 6 p.m. Tuesday, December 10, 2013 at Green Valley Baptist Church, 1111 N. La Canada Drive in Green Valley. Reception following. Arrangements by EVERGREEN MORTUARY.
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