AUBURN — John J. Russell, 97, of Auburn, died Monday, Oct. 29, at the Hospice House of Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice.

He was born in Milwaukee, Wis., Aug. 7, 1915, son of the late Peter S. and Mary A. (Judge) Russell. John graduated from Salem High School in 1934, and married Carmen C. Janelle of Lewiston in 1952. Prior to his retirement in 1978, he was employed for 41 years as superintendent at Bates Mill.

He enjoyed boating, fishing, hunting, camping, exercising and walking. He also enjoyed riding motorcycles for more than 25 years.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Carmen of Auburn; two daughters, Marsha and Barbara Russell, both of Massachusetts; two sons, Richard Russell and wife, Mary, of New Hampshire, and John J. Russell II and wife, Nancy, of Auburn; a stepson, George Cloutier and wife, Margaret “Peggy,” of Massachusetts; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by a stepson, Robert Cloutier; a stepdaughter, Claudette Freeman; and a brother, Peter Russell II.

The family extends a heartfelt thank-you to the nurses’ aides and staff at Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice for their compassionate care and concern.

You are invited to share your condolences with the Russell family by visiting their guest book at www.thefortingroupauburn.com.