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Russell "Russ" Charles Will Jr., age 59 of Strongsville, passed away on July 6th, 2022, following a courageous fight at the Cleveland Clinic. Russ was born to Russell Will Sr. and Annette "Cookie" Will at Fairview Hospital on August 17th, 1962. Russ was the big brother to his four younger sisters, whom he cherished dearly. Russ grew up in Cleveland, then moved to Brunswick in 1977, where he graduated from Brunswick High School in 1980. Russ entered a Tool & Die apprenticeship, following in his father's footsteps, continuing his career for many years. Russ was an extremely hard worker his entire life, but you would find him either spending time with family or fishing, on his time off. After becoming disabled, Russ continued to work doing something he loved cooking. Russ was known for being an amazing cook at Cleats in Port Clinton and Strongsville, the 3 Spot in North Royalton, Skully Jax in Brunswick, Herman's Pub & Grub in Brunswick, and Valley City Grille & Chill in Valley City. Russ cherished his friendships that were made throughout his years and was known for his contagious smile and big bear hugs. If anyone talked to Russ, they knew that his biggest accomplishment in life were his children, Ashley & Brandon. Russ dreamed of becoming a grandpa and was able to fulfill his dream as "Papa Yum Yum" to his adored granddaughter, Adalynn "Addy" for the past three years. Russ's life motto was "where there's a WILL there's a way", and he lived up to his motto, every single day. Russ was known to be a fighter, simply invincible, and an inspiration to many. People joked that Russ had nine lives, defying the odds for many years. Russ survived multiple heart attacks and stent placements, multiple arrhythmias, esophageal cancer, kidney failure, and heart failure. Russ received a Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) on April 22nd, where he suffered from multiple complications, requiring hospitalization for the past 10 weeks, ultimately suffering a massive stroke. Russ put up a fight until the end, which was in his fashion. Russ is survived by his father: Russell Will Sr.; his children, Ashley Traffis (Brian) and Brandon Will (Shaina Finkel); his granddaughter, Adalynn Traffis; his sisters, Nina Hirsch (Jeff), Kim Beard (Mitch), and Tracy Will (Dawn); and many cherished nieces and nephews. Russ is preceded in death by his beautiful mother, Annette "Cookie" Will, loving sister Beverly Fraehlich, and dear niece, Hope Marie Hirsch. Visitation will be held at Jardine Funeral Home 15822 Pearl Road, Strongsville, OH 44136, Monday July 11, 2022, from 4-7PM where a funeral service will immediately follow at 7PM. Masks are encouraged.

Tributes

Russell Charles Will Jr

August 17, 1962 - July 6, 2022