Russell John Mikunda was born August 14, 1960, in Canton, Ohio to Edward and Carole (Austin) Mikunda.  He graduated in 1979, from Glenoak High School in Canton.  Russell served his country in the Navy from 1979 – 1987.  He later attended Eastern College of Health Vocations in Little Rock, Arkansas.  On September 27, 2014, he married Danielle Receveur in Grinnell overlooking Arbor Lake.

Russell was a man that others admired for his spirit, patience and kindness.  He enjoyed woodworking and doing things outside in the yard.  You could always find him tinkering with electronics, building computers or playing with graphic design programs.  As his ALS progressed, he enjoyed birdwatching and little road trips.  Russell liked watching the cooking channels, even though he didn't cook!  The ALS Iowa Chapter support group played a big part in his life and he made lasting friendships.  His greatest love was his family.  Marrying Danielle, seeing his daughter get married and meeting his grandson were the highlights of his life and memories that will forever live on.

He will be missed by his wife, Danielle of Grinnell; his daughter, Bettye (Bryan) Boothroyd of Carlisle; grandson, Edward Russell Boothroyd; brothers, Edward Mikunda of Grinnell and Joe Mikunda of Ottumwa; nephews, Steve and Tyler; and nieces, Brittany Fisher, Kara Mikunda, Jasmine Mikunda and Kyle Heberling.

Russell died Tuesday, May 25, 2021 at his home surrounded by loved ones at the age of 60.  He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Karen Mikunda Maple.

His family would like to thank all of the nurses and aides at Unity Point Grinnell Hospice and Home Health for the wonderful care and the time spent with Russell.