Russell Lee Bearss

Russell L. Bearss, 85, of Vermilion, died Friday, January 14, 2011 in St. Croix after a sudden illness. Born August 25, 1925 in Ellsworth, MI he had been a Vermilion resident for the past 10 years. He was a veteran of the US Navy serving during during WWII from 1943-1946 on a seaplane rescue squadron. He graduated from Western Michigan University and started his career as a teacher. Russell left teaching to manage the Chrysler Automotive Plant in in Highland Park, MI. He then located land in Perrysburg, OH and helped build and manage that plant, he then moved to manage the Chrysler Plant in Syrcuse, NY. Russell left Chrysler in 1975 and began working for Borg Warner, an international company that he traveled with around the world. After 10 years with Borg Warner, he began working as the CEO for Braun Engineering in Detroit, MI and retired in 1990, after 6 years with Braun. He then continued to consult for several years. He was awarded the Governors Award in Ohio in 1969 for his work in bringing the Chrysler Plant to Perrysburg, OH and in 1972 he was awarded the Outstanding Alumni Award, from Western Michigan University. Russell enjoyed traveling, boating, and woodworking. Survivors include his wife of 61 years, Joanne (nee Frisbie) Bearss; son, Daniel Bearss of Washington DC; daughters, Nancy Bearss of Milton, Delaware and Anne (Craig) Vinkovich of Brecksville; grandsons, Derek and Thomas Vinkovich; and a sister, Bonnie Burgan of Brevard, NC. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hubert and Rose (nee Gornick) Bearss; and a sister, Betty Ettig. A memorial service will be held Saturday, January 29, 2011 at 1 pm at Inland Seas Maritime Museum 480 Main Street Vermilion, OH 44089. Memorial contributions are suggested to the The Cleveland Orchestra, attention Development office, 11001 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44106 or Inland Seas Maritime Museum 480 Main Street Vermilion, OH 44089. Online condolences may be made at www.riddlefuneralhome.com.