Russell Wayne Blad, 90, of Bremen, Indiana, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, July 28, 2026.
Born on December 12, 1935, in Grovertown, Indiana, Russell was the son of Leonard and Helen (Gray) Blad. He graduated from Rolling Prairie High School in 1955, where he excelled in basketball and track, and later married his high school sweetheart, Caroline Mae Harenzo, on August 30, 1958. Together they built a loving family and shared 64 wonderful years of marriage.
As a young boy growing up on the family farm, Russell survived a devastating farm fire that left him with severe third-degree burns to his leg. He endured skin grafts, months of rehabilitation, and had to relearn how to walk. Through determination, faith, and an unbreakable spirit, he overcame what many would have considered insurmountable obstacles. Those who knew Russell throughout his life saw that same perseverance, strength, and quiet resolve in everything he did.
Russell was a proud Teamster whose career reflected his dedication, dependability, and strong work ethic. He drove tanker trucks for Sinclair Oil Company and later for Reith-Riley Construction, earning the respect of coworkers and friends alike. Alongside his trucking career, he remained an independent farmer, never losing his connection to the land that had shaped him since childhood.
Growing up on his family’s farm, Russell developed a lifelong love for agriculture, livestock, and animals, especially cattle. Farming was never simply a pastime—it was part of who he was. Wanting his own children to experience the same values and way of life that he treasured, he and Caroline chose to leave the suburbs of South Bend and establish their family on a farm in New Carlisle. There, their children were blessed to grow up surrounded by open fields, livestock, and the lessons of hard work, responsibility, compassion, and the close-knit spirit of rural life.
Russell found joy in life’s simple pleasures and in sharing them with others. A true master gardener, he took great pride in cultivating an abundant garden each year. One of his greatest pleasures was sharing the fruits of his labor, generously giving fresh vegetables to family, friends, and neighbors throughout the season. His garden reflected not only his skill and dedication but also his generous heart.
He also loved fishing, playing chess, and enjoying a spirited game of cards with family and friends. His competitive spirit first shined on the basketball court during his high school years and remained with him throughout his life. Whether working, farming, or enjoying a friendly competition, Russell believed every job was worth doing well. He often reminded those around him, “If you aren’t going to do it right, don’t do it at all.”
Above all else, Russell was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His greatest pride was the family he and Caroline built together and the values they passed on through their example. Russell taught those around him that character is built through respect.
Russell was a faithful member of St. Dominic Catholic Church in Bremen, where his quiet faith remained an important part of his life.
He is survived by his four children: Karin Blad of Redlands, California; Susan Noe’ of Myakka City, Florida; Carolyn (Brian) Donathen of North Liberty, Indiana; and Allen (Tracey) Blad of Dallas, Pennsylvania; six grandchildren: Hannah Blad, Erik (Leah) Blad, Garrett (Luiz Vilaça) Blad, Tiffany Beckham, Rylan (Madissen) Donathen, and Carlee (Dave) Spencer; thirteen great-grandchildren: Logan, Stella, Lucy, Aspen, Ivee, Jacob, Lathen, Landen, Liam, Logan, Baker, Lainey, and Kacie; and his siblings, Ruby (Harold) Olson, Doris Ross, and Kenneth (Jean) Blad.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Helen Blad; his beloved wife of 64 years, Caroline; his brother, Donald (Marion) Blad; and his cherished grandson, Austin Blad.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:00 p.m. (EST) on Monday, August 3, 2026, at St. Dominic Catholic Church, 803 W. Bike Street, Bremen, Indiana, with Reverend Daniel Niezer officiating. Burial will follow at Patton Cemetery in La Porte, Indiana.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, La Porte, Indiana.
The family invites friends to share condolences and memories at EsslingFuneralHome.com.
Russell’s life was a testament to perseverance, faith, hard work, and love. From overcoming a devastating childhood injury to building a life centered on family, farming, and service to others, he demonstrated remarkable resilience and quiet strength. He leaves behind not only a family who loved him dearly, but a legacy of integrity, generosity, and determination that will continue to inspire future generations. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of all who knew him.
