Russell Howard Roe, known affectionately as “Rusty,” passed away peacefully on Oct. 27, 2025 at his home in Hermiston at the age of 77 with his wife, Thelma by his side.
He was born on May 28, 1948 in Townsend, Mont. to William Russell Roe and Patricia Ann Stickel Roe.
Rusty was a kind, gentle man with a wonderful sense of humor. He was a friend to everyone who knew him.
Rusty proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. Among his fondest military memories was serving aboard the USS Arlington, which was part of the crucial recovery team for the Apollo 8 mission. Following his service, Rusty embarked on a 42-year career on the railroad. He retired in 2008 as a locomotive engineer, having worked for both the Milwaukee and Union Pacific railroads.
Rusty’s life was defined by two enduring passions: music and classic cars. He discovered his love for the saxophone in the fifth grade and continued to play throughout his life, playing with numerous bands over the years. He also could often be found at local car shows, indulging his love for antique cars and expanding his collection. There wasn’t a classic car he didn’t love.
He is lovingly survived by his wife, Thelma, who was his partner in crime for 45 years and never too far from his side. He is also survived by his two sisters, Teresa (Doug) Nowlin and Sunny Baxley; stepsister, Pam Paluska; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Rusty was preceded in death by his mother and father and two sisters.
A funeral service will be held on Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025 at 11 a.m. at Burns Mortuary Chapel, Hermiston.
A celebration of life will follow the service at the Hermiston Senior Center, where friends and family are invited to share memories at a potluck reception.
A second celebration of life is planned for next summer (2026) in Three Forks, Mont. in July.
In lieu of flowers and to honor Rusty’s lifelong dedication to music, the family requests that memorial donations be made to your favorite local elementary school band department.
Please share memories of Rusty with his family at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com.
Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in care of arrangements.
