Russell M. Rumbaugh

Russell M. Rumbaugh
April 7, 1951 - December 15, 2023 

Russell M. Rumbaugh, 72, Michigan City, Indiana, passed away Friday, December 15, 2023 at 4:09 am in Memorial Hospital of South Bend, South Bend, IN.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am, Friday, December 22, 2023 at Ott/Haverstock Funeral Chapel, 418 Washington St., Michigan City, IN with Pastor William Fine officiating. Visitation will be from 9:00 am - 11:00 am, Friday at the Ott/Haverstock Funeral Chapel.    

He was born April 7, 1951 in Michigan City, IN to the late Edwin and Lois (Payne) Rumbaugh. 

Russell met his wife of 44 years Cathleen through a courtship started on CB radio. He married his “Sunshine” Cathleen Rumbaugh (Johnson) on April 7th, 1979 and went on to have two children, Christine Rumbaugh and Mark Rumbaugh who reside in Michigan City. Russell is also survived by sisters, Nancy Brinkman, Betty (Ray) Kuta, Linda (Michael) Jones and Gloria (Gordon) Holtzlander; life-long best friend Daniel "Danny" Mills; as well as many beloved extended family members. 

The couple also lost one child before her time to be born. He was also predeceased by his mother and father, sister Dianna Rumbaugh, brother-in-law Thomas Brinkman, mother-in-law Dolores Johnson, father-in-law Hugh Johnson Sr. and brother-in-law Hugh Johnson Jr. 

Russell worked as a correctional officer at Westville Correctional Center for 33 years before retiring as an “Old Timer” for his many years of service.

Throughout the years, Russell enjoyed bowling, playing golf and fishing. He bowled on Saturday night leagues in Michigan City for many years. He was an avid fisherman who enjoyed fishing, even when he didn’t catch anything. He also loved cats especially Midnight, Scarlett and Coco.

Russell is remembered as someone who filled every room he was in with laughter, humor, and an overall ability to make people feel welcomed.

Contributions may be made to the family of Russell Rumbaugh C/O Ott/Haverstock Funeral Chapel, 418 Washington St., Michigan City, IN 46360.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Russell M. Rumbaugh, please visit our floral store.