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Mr. John Alvin Russell of San Antonio, Texas passed away on February 16, 2024 at the age of 89. He was born in San Antonio on August 15, 1934. He is preceded in death by his parents, Bea and Alvin Russell. He is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Betty Russell; daughter Kathy Johnson and husband Matt; daughter Dianne Russell; grandson Taylor Johnson and wife Marilin (great-grandchildren Sofia, Sarah, and Christopher); granddaughter Erin Gutierrez and husband Andrew (great-grandchild Josephine). John graduated from The University of Texas at Austin with a BS in Aeronautical Engineering. He later earned a MS in Mathematics from St. Mary’s University. John applied his education to a successful career in engineering. He was a research engineer at Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio. In the 90s, John and Betty lived in Washington, D.C. where he worked for the Department of Energy as a Director heading up the alternative fuels program. John was the author of over 100 technical papers and co-authored a book, Alcohols Toxicology. He was a member of Mensa and taught Mathematics at the college-level. After retiring, John volunteered for Owl Radio where he read the newspaper for people who are blind or visually impaired. He also volunteered at the Texas Air Museum, where he donated the last plane he owned. Flying was one of John’s greatest passions. It started as a teenager when he soloed at age 17. His love for aviation continued with his service as an Officer in the Air Force. He was a licensed private and commercial pilot and a certified flight instructor. He pursued his avocation as a civilian pilot for 60 years, flying over 75 different types of aircrafts and owning four airplanes. As a pilot, John liked to perform aerobatics for onlookers and for his own enjoyment. During the 70s, he had fun hang-gliding. He was a proud member of the Quiet Birdmen. During his high school years, John was a state-ranked tennis player. He continued playing tennis as an adult and even taught lessons. He also enjoyed music which inspired him to build a banjo and learn to play the harmonica. John met his wife Betty on a blind date and two weeks later they got engaged. John and Betty both appreciated traveling and together they went to over 50 countries. The two greatest loves in John’s life are best described in his own words. A few years ago, he was interviewed for a short film about his life as a pilot and said, “After my family, in a distant second place, comes flying.” John was a dear man and he will be missed immensely. In lieu of flowers, consider honoring John by making a donation to the charity of your choice. A memorial service will be held at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church 315 E. Pecan St., San Antonio, TX 78205 on Thursday, February 29, 2024 at 1:00pm. .

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John Alvin Russell

August 15, 1934 - February 16, 2024