James William Russum

James (Jim) William Russum of Casa Grande, Arizona, passed away on March 24, 2023.

Jim was born January 14, 1935 to John and Thelma Russum in El Dorado, Kansas. After graduating from El Dorado High School, he joined the Marine Corps and was stationed in Korea. After three years in the Marine Corps, he studied education at El Dorado Jr. College and Washburn University. While attending Jr. College, he met his life-long love, Mary Markham. After a 6-month courtship they were married in 1957.

After obtaining a bachelor’s degree in education, Jim and Mary moved to Arizona where Jim earned a Master’s degree from ASU. He began his career at Casa Grande Union High School in 1966. He held many positions including teacher, football coach, track coach, athletic director, and assistant principal. Jim also served as Eloy Jr. High principal and superintendent before retiring in 1993. He very much enjoyed his time with the many “kids” he taught and coached. He cherished friendships with fellow coaches and their families and impacted all who knew him and lifelong friends were made.

Jim enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping with family and friends. After retiring in 1993, Jim and Mary traveled part-time in an RV for 13 years. Later years centered around home and family. Jim deeply loved and cared for his grandchildren.

Jim resided in Casa Grande for 57 years. He attended the Casa Grande Christian Church (Compass) where he served as Deacon and Elder. Jim served as Kiwanis Club president, and was a Lions Club member.

Jim was preceded in death by his father, mother, and sister Karen. He is survived by his wife, Mary, son, Michael Russum (Tammy), daughter, Kathy Martinez (Joaquin), sister, Phyllis Nace, 6 grandchildren, and 2 great grandchildren.

A family service will be held at Arizona Veterans' Memorial Cemetery at Marana.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Savior Hospice & Palliative Care 4530 E Shea Blvd Suite 160 Phoenix, AZ 85028 or United Christian Youth Camp, Prescott, AZ https://ucyc.com/ give.