Russell R. Diehl, 89, of Bluffton, passed away Monday afternoon, Mar. 5, 2018, at Christian Care Retirement Community.

Born in Markle, IN, on Jan. 12, 1929, to Lawrence and Goldie (Graham) Diehl, Russell married Elizabeth A. Johnloz at the Murray Church on June 5, 1949; she survives.

Russell was a 1947 graduate of Lancaster High School and a member of Murray Missionary Church.  He retired after 27 years of service from International Harvester in Ft. Wayne.  He, along with his wife, volunteered for many years for the World Gospel Mission.  Together, they both also volunteered with Mercy Ships, and for over seven years, he also volunteered for Family LifeCare of Berne.

In addition to his wife, Russell is survived by three sons, Jerry (Julie) Diehl of Ft. Wayne, John (Kristin) Diehl of Ft. Wayne, and Brian (Deb) Diehl of Bluffton; six grandchildren, one step-grandson, and five great-grandchildren.

Aside from his parents, he was preceded in death by four brothers, Wendell, Lester, Millard, and Forrest Diehl; and three sisters, Helen Johnson, Doris Affolder, and Lucille Frohn.

Visitation will be Thursday, Mar. 8, 2018, from 2:00 until 8:00 PM, at Goodwin – Cale & Harnish Memorial Chapel in Bluffton.  Services will be held Friday morning, at 10:30 AM, at the Murray Missionary Church, with one hour of visitation prior to the service at the church.  Pastor Mike Gilbert will officiate.  Burial will be at Prospect Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Murray Missionary Church or Family LifeCare of Berne, IN.