Russell Lee Creaser was born August 19, 1933 in a small village of Donald, WI , the youngest child of John and Minnie Creaser. He was born with a gift of music . At a preschool age, he sat on his mother’s lap while she pumped the old organ and he picked out melodies to little songs he had learned . He often said, “all I know is music” and he continued to nurture and develop those musical skills throughout his life.
Russell was a graduate of Gilman High School, Taylor County Teacher’s College, Western Montana College and Eastern Washington University. He did Post-Masters work at Kent State University and various workshops under well-known conductors. He taught vocal music for 25 years and served in Music Ministry for 52 years. He served in the US Army during the Korean War.
On June 23, 1956 he married his high school sweetheart, Doris Smith. They were blessed with three children: Timothy Creaser of Mesa, James(Marlene) Creaser of Auburn, WA and Kimberlee (Steven) Larsen of White Salmon, WA . They are proud of their seven grandchildren : Hannah (Lucas) Reis, Lara, Ian, Caelan and Brielle Creaser, Kirsten and Elsa Larsen, and great Granddaughter, Lillian Reis. Russell was a life-long member of the Lutheran Church sharing the love of Christ through his music ministry.
He is survived by his loving wife, Doris, his three children and families, one brother, Charles (Yvonne) Creaser, brother -in-laws, Willis Couillard, Thomas (Ann) Smith, sister-in-laws, Lydia Creaser, Leonese Smith, Melba Smith, many nieces and nephews as well as many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, four sisters, Lucille Englebretson, Doris Hammond, Jerene Lucas, Catherine Couillard and one brother, Lewis Creaser.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Eden Adult Care , Hospice of the Valley, LOC Ministry and a sincere appreciation for the many visitors, cards and prayers received during this difficult time in Russ’s life.
A Memorial Service will be held on April 11, at 11 AM at Love of Christ Lutheran Church , 1525 N. Power Road, Mesa, AZ with a reception following at the Las Palmas Club House, 215 N. Power Rd. Mesa, AZ.
Memorials may be given to Love of Christ Lutheran Church music ministry or Hospice of the Valley in Mesa.
Remembrances may be shared with the family by visiting mountainviewfuneralhomeandcemetery.com
In this time of sadness, may you see the love of God in the faces of family and friends to help you get through this difficult time. Russ was a wonderful brother-in-law. He will be missed by the members of the Jim Smith family.
My thoughts and prayers are with you, Doris and family. God has ended his suffering. He is at peace now. He was such a talented musician, and enjoyed singing under his direction at Good Shepherd.
Prayers for you all in this
sad time.
As a music teacher, Russ has had more influence on my life than any other person I’ve had the honor to know. I am especially grateful for his kind heart.