Russell "Russ" Carl Bottelson, Jr., 67, of Post Falls, Idaho, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on April 23, 2015.

Russ was born Dec. 3, 1947, in Minneapolis, Minn., to Russell Carl, Sr. and Geraldine Elaine (Vick) Bottelson. In his youth, he went by 'Rusty' and grew up in Minneapolis through his college years where he attended the University of Minnesota.

After college, Russ moved to Missoula, Mont., and finally ended up in Post Falls. He was a salesman by trade, but seemed to truly find his love of profession later in his years as a paraprofessional, working for the Coeur d'Alene School District. He loved to teach the youth and be involved in their lives. It was easy for him to connect with the kids, and that was probably because of the deep love that he had for his children and especially his grandchildren.

Russ was a patriot to the core. He served as an Army Sergeant in the Vietnam War and was proud to call himself a veteran. He loved to study about Christianity and politics. He was a very intelligent man, but also very willing to listen. Road trips and spending time in the outdoors were a great love of his also. Any theme park was the "icing on the cake."

Russ is survived by many family members: Aunt Joyce Zabioski, sisters Terri (Jim) Richards, Linda (Lee) Loudermill, Cynde (Mike) Kleven; daughters Kellie Proost and Tyler (Paul) Vannoy; stepsons Sean (Jenny) Cleave, Danny (Carissa) Cleave, Gabe (Aubrey) Cleave and Brandon (Valerie) Cleave; grandchildren Taylor Proost, Jayden, Garin and Audrey Vannoy, Madison and Hayden Cleave, Kolby, Keaunna, Elysia and Stella; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Russ was a wonderful man who was loved by many. He will be missed, and always remembered. We love you, Dad.

Please visit Russ' online memorial page at www.belltowerfuneralhome.com. Memorial services will be held at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, April 28, at Bell Tower Funeral Home, 3398 E. Jenalan Ave., Post Falls.