Russell D. Pettijohn, a long-time resident of St. Joseph, Missouri, passed away on September 26, 2025, at the age of 96. He was born on December 1, 1928, in Grant City, Missouri, to Orten and Bertha (Dick) Pettijohn.
Pettijohn is survived by his two sons, Jeff Pettijohn (Robin) and Brad Pettijohn (Greta), along with seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. His grandchildren include Lori O’Neal (Jeff), Jason Pettijohn (Caitlin), Robert Pettijohn (Erin), Renee Pettijohn, Luke Pettijohn, Alex Pettijohn (Elise), and Julia Pettijohn Strawhecker (Ben). He also leaves behind his siblings, Joan Elford and Donald Pettijohn, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife of 69 years, Glee Pettijohn, his parents, brother Wesley Pettijohn, and several siblings-in-law.
Career and Community Involvement
A graduate of Lafayette High School in 1946, Russell served in both the Missouri Air National Guard and the U.S. Air Force, where he achieved the rank of sergeant. Over the course of his career, he dedicated 30 years to the St. Joseph News-Press as a printer and in various roles. He also spent 7.5 years working in the Maintenance Department of the St. Joseph School District.
Russell and Glee were cherished members of the Savannah Sashayers Square Dance Club, where they enjoyed dancing together for over 40 years. He was a devoted member of St. Peter Lutheran Church in St. Joseph, participating actively in church activities.
Personal Life and Hobbies
Russell had a passion for the outdoors, engaging in activities such as fishing, camping, and gardening. He and Glee enjoyed spending their winters in warmer climates, often traveling to Texas, Arizona, and Florida as “snowbirds.”
Family remained a central focus in his life, and he treasured time spent with his grandchildren, imparting wisdom and love to the next generation.
The farewell services will take place at 10 a.m. on Saturday, October 4, at St. Peter Lutheran Church, with interment following at Memorial Park Cemetery. The Pettijohn family will be available to greet friends from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, October 3, at Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to Missouri Right to Life or Mosaic Life Care Hospice.
For those wishing to leave condolences, an online guest book and obituary can be found at www.meierhoffer.com.