Russelle Eugene Jesse, Sr.

Russelle E. Jesse, Sr., 71, of Port Clinton, lost his battle with pancreatic cancer and passed away on Sunday, November 20, 2022 at the Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland with loved ones by his side. Russelle was born on May 13, 1951 in Norwalk, OH to Donald R. and Barbara (Schmitt) Jesse. He services in the United States Marine Corps, doing recon in the DMZ in Vietnam, during which time he was shot twice and was in a helicopter that was shot down.

After his discharge, Russelle worked as an over-the-road trucker for 21 years. He was a member of the Western Conferences of Teamsters.

Russelle was a life member of Port Clinton VFW Post #2480. He was a member of Oak Harbor American Legion Post #114 where he was the current Commander of the Post, a position held by him for 9 years; a member of Oak Harbor Sons of American Legion; a founding member of Oak Harbor American Legion Riders; and a proud member of the American Legion’s Honor Guard. Russelle was very dedicated to the American Legion and took his office as Commander very seriously. He spent many hours volunteering and thinking of ways to improve the Post, always trying to do good for the betterment of the organization.

Russelle was known to be quite the adventurer; he loved riding motorcycles, boating, fishing and telling stories. For a period of time, he lived in Colorado and enjoyed the cowboy life while living in the mountains. Russelle also enjoyed playing pool and throwing darts in the local leagues.

Russelle is survived by his children, Russelle E. “Rusty” Jesse, Jr., Katrina (Anthony) Catalogna, Nicole (James) Kirkpatrick and Michael Jesse; 7 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren with 2 more great-grandchildren on the way; and his soul mate and companion, Joanne Blevins. Russelle was preceded in death by his parents and his sisters, Donna and Janice.

Visitation will be held on Friday, December 2, 2022 from 2-8 p.m. at the Robinson-Walker Funeral Home & Crematory, 165 E. Water Street, Oak Harbor. Funeral services will be conducted by Pastor Becky Bolander at the funeral home on Saturday, December 3, 2022 at 11 a.m. with visitation starting at 10 a.m. Burial will follow in Salem Township Union Cemetery with full military graveside honors. Memorial contributions in memory of Russelle can be given to American Legion Post #114 Building Fund. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.walkerfuneralhomes.com.