Memorial service for Russel Finch will be held Saturday, June 28 at 2:00 pm at Alliance St. John's Lutheran Church with Pastor Megan Morrow officiating.
Russel Finch 92 of Alliance passed away peacefully at his home on November 28, 2024.
Russ was born March 15, 1932 in Ord, NE to George Finch and Dorthy Weed. Russ graduated from Alliance High School in 1951 and was united in marriage to Darlene Mc Elheny on July 26, 1951 at Alliance. After marriage the couple lived in Alliance where Russ worked for Gulf Research.
In 1952 Russ was drafted into the U.S. Army and was stationed in Japan as a Military Policeman. In 1954 he returned to Alliance where he and Darlene lived for many years.
In 1956 their first child Scott was born. In 1957 their second child Rhonda was born. During this time Russ worked at Alliance Bakery and later for the U.S. Postal Service in Alliance. Russ also farmed north of Alliance. In 1968 Russ and Darlene began their own business Kidnapper Manufacturing which they managed for 31 years.
Russ always had a keen interest in gardening and new technology. In 1981 he built a new home using passive solar and geothermal technology. Heating this home for just pennies a day convinced him to start a new business. Greenhouse In The Snow began in 1992 selling instructions to build a greenhouse using the method he had found. The business grew over the years and eventually went into partnership with Allen Bright at Antioch Machine in Alliance where it continues today.
Russ enjoyed gardening in his greenhouse, traveling, spending time with his grandkids, automobiles, and of course Husker football.
He is survived by his daughter Rhonda and Carl Smith of Fairchild, WI. Grandchildren Trent Smith (Nichole) of Fond du Lac, WI and Tasha Newton (Kyle) of Fall Creek, WI. Four Great Grandchildren Claire, Leah, Oliver, and Dorthy. He was preceded in death by his Mother Dorthy, son Scott, and wife Darlene. Memorials may be given in lieu of flowers to the St. John’s Ministry Greenhouse 2090 Emerson Ave Alliance, NE 69301.