Russ Gregory, 81, died unexpectedly on May 9, 2023 in Denver, Colorado due to complications following successful open-heart surgery.

Russ was born on January 8, 1942 in Wooster, Ohio.  After graduating from Dalton High School in 1960 he attended Bluffton College (now University), majoring in Music Education and Piano, later earning a Master’s Degree in Music History from Ohio State University in 1972.

After his college graduation he taught for one year at Wellington, Ohio before returning to Bluffton in 1965 where he taught music classes at Beaverdam and directed the choirs and musicals at Bluffton High School. Russ, also, directed several youth and adult church choirs during this time.

In 1976 Russ, Nancy (Bluffton, ’66), and children, Karyn and Christopher, moved to Denver, Colorado to spend two years in Mennonite Voluntary Service. Russ then began teaching elementary music in the Denver Public Schools.  In 2002, for his excellence in the classroom and inspiring the love of music to hundreds of students, he received the Distinguished Teacher Award.  He retired from teaching in 2003.

During retirement he enjoyed traveling with Nancy on many trips. Russ, also, ushered at the Colorado Symphony for eleven years, was active with his bowling league, sang with his church choir and volunteered on projects at Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp in Divide, Colorado.

His grandsons, Coen and Lewis were a joy to him. He spent much time with them in fun, educational, and creative projects and enjoyed attending their sporting and music events. 

He was a man of true integrity, kindness and unconditional love and support of his family.

As you wish, donations can be made in Russ’s memory to Bluffton University, 1 University Drive, Bluffton, OH 45817 ( www.givecampus.com/ ) or Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp ( www.rmmc.org/  ).