Russell Walcott

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Russell Walcott, age 87, of Allendale, passed away from cancer on May 14, 2023 at home. Born in Allendale to the late Herman and Caroline (VanFarowe) Walcott, Russ attended Holland Christian High School and Calvin College. He graduated with a teaching degree and married Faith (Karel) on September 4, 1959 in Coopersville, MI. Russ was a teacher in the Coopersville district until 1968. He did enjoy teaching, even taking a bus load of junior high students around the Upper Peninsula one summer, but his love of agriculture called him back to join his father and brother, Harold, at Walcott Elevator feed and grain mill in Allendale. His interests from there led him into different farming ventures throughout the years including turkeys, dairy, chickens, and pork production. Russ always valued his employees who were an important part of his success. The pork business led him to Oceana County where he met many wonderful farm families who played a part in helping him achieve his visions. Always the philosopher, he enjoyed his friends at the local breakfast spot, The Embassy, where they met to solve the world’s problems. Russ was also a member of a stock club where he enjoyed the camaraderie and shared wisdom of fellow farmers. Most of all, Russ loved working alongside and spending time with his wife, children, and grandchildren. Russ is lovingly remembered by his wife of 63 years, Faith; his children, Tracy Walcott, Terry TenBrink (Doug Nash), Fred (Patti) Walcott, and Daryl Sorensen; grandchildren, Blake TenBrink, Brant TenBrink, Sheldon (Melissa) Walcott, Olivia (Dylan) Walcott-Gonda, William Walcott, Aubrey (Tyler) Robach, Matthew Arendsen; great-grandchildren, Beaux TenBrink and Tate Robach; sister, Carolyn (David) Miedema; sister-in-law, Linda Karel; brother-in-law, William Klouw; and many nieces and nephews. Russ was preceded in death by and greatly missed his daughter, Tobey Sorensen; brother, Harold Walcott; sister, Marilyn Gelder; brother-in-law, Mark Karel; and sister-in-law, Kathleen Klouw. A private family service will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Faith Hospice, 2100 Raybrook St Grand Rapids, MI 49546.