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Kara Rae Russell
Kara Rae RussellNursing-MDKara Rae Russell, 52 of Prospect, died peacefully Monday evening, January 18, 2021 at home surrounded by her loving family following an 8-year battle with breast cancer.

She was born July 21, 1968 in Marion to Duane P. and Lesta (Eblin) Basel.

On December 3, 1994 she married Michael E. Russell in the Emanuel Lutheran Church in Marion and he survives.

She was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Waldo. Kara was a Registered Nurse, receiving her BSN from the 1st class at the Mount Carmel School of Nursing. She had worked at the Smith Clinic, Marion Correctional Institute and finally as a Nursing Supervisor at the Bureau of Workers Comp.

She was a 1986 graduate of Elgin High School. After high school she went to live and work in Australia via FFA for 7 months. Kara loved baking cakes for all family celebrations. She had been a 4-H Advisor for the Prospect Explorers and always enjoyed the Marion County Fair with her family. She loved to go camping and boating in East Harbor State Park near Port Clinton and vacationing in the U. P. of Michigan.

Besides her husband, she is survived by her mother, Lesta Basel, Marion; a son, Max E. Russell; a daughter; Jillian M. Russell, both at home; a sister, Kris (Doug) Guthrie, Marion; her mother and father-in-law, Ralph and Patty Russell, Prospect; sisters-in-law, Julie (Bryon) Bigford, Marion; Jennifer (Ty) Williams, Waldo; brothers-in-law, Andy (Laura) Russell, Marion; John Yirga, Gates Mills.
Many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her father, Duane P. Basel, a sister, Kim Yirga.

Public calling hours will be Friday, January 22, 2021 from 3 to 7 PM at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Waldo (strict covid precautions will be enforced). A private family service will be held at St. Paul’s, Pastor Robert Ohrstedt will officiate and burial will follow in Prospect Cemetery.

Memorial gifts may be made to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, P. O. Box 162 Waldo, OH 43356.

The Stofcheck-Ballinger Funeral Home in Prospect is assisting the family.

Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at www.stofcheck-ballinger.com


Directions to Prospect Cemetery




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Condolences       to

#1 from: Shirley Green
Waldo
Tue, Jan 19, 2021 at 3:54 PM

We'll always remember Kara's beautiful smile. She put up a strong fight against cancer. Love of her family gave her strength to do so. Praying for comfort and peace for her loved ones.              
           Shirley and Doug Green



#2 from: Randy & Beth Davenport
 
Tue, Jan 19, 2021 at 3:54 PM

Kara was & always be a great friend. I loved going camping with her & Mike & playing cards & going out for lunch. I will always love her like a sister. Rest in heaven



#3 from: Tami Jacobs Spayde
Marion OH
Tue, Jan 19, 2021 at 4:12 PM

Prayers and condolences to the family.



#4 from: Ben and Leanne Bowdre
 
Tue, Jan 19, 2021 at 4:24 PM

I am so sorry to hear of this.  You will be in our thoughts and prayers.



#5 from: Marla (Foos) Sager
 
Tue, Jan 19, 2021 at 4:28 PM

Russell and Basel family,

 I am so very sorry for your loss. I have fond memories of Kara when I was younger and would come play with Kim.  I can only imagine the greeting Kara will receive from Kim and Duane the hugs  and smiles.  

With thoughts and love

Marla




#6 from: Erik and Cheryl Johnson
LaRue
Tue, Jan 19, 2021 at 4:33 PM

Dear Lesta and family, Words can not convey how deeply sorry we are. You will forever miss her and her shoes will never be filled. Please find Peace in the fact that she has Peace.



#7 from: Connie  and Joe Isler
Prospect
Tue, Jan 19, 2021 at 5:20 PM

Our hearts are saddened.  Her smile just warmed your heart.



#8 from: Steve Williams
Woodstock ga
Tue, Jan 19, 2021 at 5:26 PM

I’m so sorry Lesta. I’m praying for your family



#9 from: Jackie Roshon-costea
marion
Tue, Jan 19, 2021 at 5:29 PM

so very sorry for your loss. i worked with Kara for short time and we became friends.She was the shyest sweetest person I have ever known.



#10 from: Janice and Dave Hunsicker
Prospect
Tue, Jan 19, 2021 at 5:31 PM

Our hearts are heavy but thankful to have many good memories of bonfires, potlucks, card playing and just good times with Kara. Her family was her world.
We are so very sorry.  




#11 from: Tyler and Brittany Lowe
 
Tue, Jan 19, 2021 at 5:41 PM

Thinking of your entire family so sorry for your loss!  
                         Love,
                   Tyler& Brittany Lowe



#12 from: Shawn and Teresa Kelly
Marion
Tue, Jan 19, 2021 at 5:51 PM

Mike, Jillian, Max and your extended family:
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.  Heaven has gained a loveable and dedicated angel.  She'll be missed by many on earth, but enjoyed by even more in heaven !




#13 from: Rita Rubeck Headington Parker
Richwood, Oh
Tue, Jan 19, 2021 at 6:02 PM

My sincere sympathy to Kara's family.  Remember all of the good times spent together.
Rita Rubeck Headington Parker, EHS Media Specialist 1965-1996



#14 from: Pam Williams
Florida
Tue, Jan 19, 2021 at 6:21 PM

I am so sorry.  My prayers are with you and all the whole family.



#15 from: Kevin & Kathy Sealey
 
Tue, Jan 19, 2021 at 6:30 PM

Mike & Family...we are so sorry to hear of Kara's passing.  Thoughts & prayers to everyone during this difficult time.  



#16 from: Tracy Alexander  Martino
Prospect
Tue, Jan 19, 2021 at 6:31 PM

I am so sorry to hear of Kara’s passing. She was a terrific person that will be missed by so many. Prayers for the family.



#17 from: Amy Brown
 
Tue, Jan 19, 2021 at 6:33 PM

Prayers to the family



#18 from: Barb Holcomb Daily
Larue
Tue, Jan 19, 2021 at 6:36 PM

So sorry for your loss. She was such a nice person.



#19 from: Susan Washburn Merlack
 
Tue, Jan 19, 2021 at 7:04 PM

My heart goes out to you Lesta. You are in my thoughts and prayers ❤️



#20 from: Kevin Curtis
Retired BWC
Tue, Jan 19, 2021 at 7:48 PM

Such a sweet person. I always enjoyed seeing her big smile whenever I would come into her area to help. My thoughts are with her family.



#21 from: Joan & Larry Reiff & Brian Creasap
Marion
Tue, Jan 19, 2021 at 7:54 PM

We're so sorry for your loss. Prayers for the entire family.



#22 from: Lori Jacobs Robinson
 
Tue, Jan 19, 2021 at 8:03 PM

Mike and family,

So sorry for your loss.  You all are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.  



#23 from: Steve Jones
LaRue
Tue, Jan 19, 2021 at 8:20 PM

So sorry for your loss
Steve, Ryan(Shawna)
Allison (Bobby&Anna)



#24 from: Julie Addair (Fryman)
Raymond, Ohio
Tue, Jan 19, 2021 at 8:22 PM

I am very sorry to hear of Kara's passing. My heart and thoughts are with all of you.



#25 from: Jeff & Suzy Wall
LaRue
Tue, Jan 19, 2021 at 8:49 PM

Sending our deepest sympathy to  the family. My you find peace in your beautiful memories.



#26 from: Wendy Schultz Sisson
Prospect
Tue, Jan 19, 2021 at 8:53 PM

So sorry to hear of Kara's passing.  I have fond memories from school. Kara was always a bright light in our day. Definitely her Mother's daughter.  Kara never gave up on anything she believed in.  Our sincere condolences and comforting prayers are with her family.  Kara and Mike raised wonderful kids!



#27 from: Tammie and Pete Mihaly
BWC
Tue, Jan 19, 2021 at 9:03 PM

We thank you so much for allowing us to visit and pray with Kara before she left us.  It was a sincere pleasure to work with her these many years at BWC.  She was a dedicated worker amid many trying days, be it due to work circumstances or her health.  She was true to the end.  A beautiful friend.  May Jesus be with all of you now and in the coming days.  



#28 from: Dee Imbody
Marion
Tue, Jan 19, 2021 at 9:13 PM

Kara and I first met when we were nurses at Smith Clinic. She had the biggest heart and was an incredible nurse caring for her cancer patients. We had many laughs throughout the years and could cry to each other many times. I will miss her, but knowing she’s done fighting her battle and is at peace is all I could ask for. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.



#29 from: Tanyce and Frank Addison
LaRue
Tue, Jan 19, 2021 at 9:39 PM

We are so deeply sorry. May God's peace give comfort.



#30 from: Jeremy and Sarah Wright
 
Tue, Jan 19, 2021 at 9:45 PM

Lesta and family, we are so so sorry for your loss. Sending so many thoughts and prayers to you all.



#31 from: Diana Issler
Prospect
Wed, Jan 20, 2021 at 8:00 AM

So sorry for your loss. Sincere condolences to you and your family. Keep everyone close. There is strength in family and friends.🙏



#32 from: Barb/ Edward Stofcheck
 
Wed, Jan 20, 2021 at 8:49 AM

We will miss you. Rest In Peace  praying for family members.



#33 from: Stan and Jill Casey
Marion
Wed, Jan 20, 2021 at 9:44 AM

So sorry to hear Kara was such a Beautiful and Wonderful person!  She watched our children as they were going up, they loved it when she would come over.  Prayers to all her Family God received  a Very Special Angel🙏    Stan, Jill, Kristian, and Vince Casey and Abbe Mills



#34 from: Jeff Buffer
Columbus
Wed, Jan 20, 2021 at 11:35 AM

A wonderful person and co-worker, one who I called a friend.  I enjoyed talking about her family vacations and children's accomplishments.  Thoughts and prayers.



#35 from: Jim and Cathie
Garrettsville, OH
Wed, Jan 20, 2021 at 12:00 PM

Jim and I send our deepest sympathy for the loss of Kara. We know she fought long and hard to bet this.  May she RIP and pain free.  Much love and prayers to you all.  🙏🙏🙏❤



#36 from: Peg Curts
Richwood, OH
Wed, Jan 20, 2021 at 1:13 PM

So sorry to hear of Kara's passing.  We were employed at Rite Aid many years ago together and I remember her trip to Australia.  May God wrap His loving arms around you all and give you peace.  



#37 from: Linda Peltomaa
BWC
Wed, Jan 20, 2021 at 5:20 PM

Kara was one of the kindest people I know.  She was always very thoughtful and would express herself in a positive way. For example, she would say that she loved U.P. Michigan because she loved the people. She wouldn't say she liked them better than Ohio people. She knew her audience and expressed light, not dark. She was quiet and thoughtful, she didn't waste her words. She was always very generous, especially with her wonderful baked goods, she baked and expected nothing in return. That was Kara. We lost a beautiful, wonderful gem, this is terribly sad for everyone at BWC, she will truly be missed.



#38 from: Todd & Sherry Eblin
Caledonia, Ohio
Wed, Jan 20, 2021 at 6:29 PM

We are so sorry for your loss. Our hearts and prayers are with you all. All our love.



#39 from: Kristen Grinnell
Cortland Ohio
Wed, Jan 20, 2021 at 9:05 PM

So very saddened and sorry for your loss.  She was a loving and beautiful soul.  May she rest in peace.

Kristen, Megan and Aidan



#40 from: Steve Long and Beth Bishop-Long
Denver NC
Wed, Jan 20, 2021 at 9:37 PM

We are so sorry to hear of Kara’s passing, and  our sincere sympathy to all of her family.  May God give you comfort.



#41 from: Pat Kyle Beayley
Russell's Point
Wed, Jan 20, 2021 at 10:35 PM

I am so sorry for your loss. I send my sincere sympathy.



#42 from: Rhonda  and Adam Irey
LaRue
Wed, Jan 20, 2021 at 11:43 PM

Sharing memories with love and laughter will fill your hearts with strength and peace.
With deepest sympathy,
Rhonda and Adam Irey



#43 from: Lynn and Helen Slemmons
Prospect, Ohio
Thu, Jan 21, 2021 at 8:00 AM

Our deepest sympathy to the Basil and the Russel families. We are so sorry to hear of your loss. God Bless!



#44 from: Dana Price Larcomb
Charles Town, WV
Thu, Jan 21, 2021 at 8:26 AM

Lesta and Family, So very sorry to hear of Kara’s passing.  I have many fond memories of time spent with all 3 of your girls growing up.  God Bless and keep you and Kara’s Family in the days to come.



#45 from: Vivian Atkinson
373 N Murray Hill Road
Thu, Jan 21, 2021 at 8:43 AM

A small and mighty  force to be reckoned with is how I have always seen sweet Kara!! She stood up for everything that was  right and good and never backed away from unfairness or a battle that needed to be fought! She was a warrior for her husband, children, mother and co workers!! Despite her illness she never gave up on the things she loved!! I am so thankful and honored to call her my friend. When I am feeling weak or beaten I will always think of Kara`s strength and determination to do the right thing and soldier on. Only a chosen few have that power and strength to affect so many peoples lives in such a positive way. She will be greatly missed!!!



#46 from: Lori Finnerty
Dublin OH
Thu, Jan 21, 2021 at 11:30 AM

Kara was an inspiration to everyone who worked with her.  She was always positive and a real problem solver.  Although we were aware of her challenges with cancer, she always kept the same smile and was such a noble force through it all.  Wishing her family and all who knew her thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.  RIP Kara and you have truly touched so many lives.  



#47 from: Timothy Moore
ZANGMEISTER
Thu, Jan 21, 2021 at 12:09 PM

RIP. A genuinely nice person who brightened our office with every visit; she will be missed.



#48 from: Brian E. Napper
Marion
Thu, Jan 21, 2021 at 2:25 PM

Kara was a very nice person. She will be missed here on Earth by those who love her. I do believe she is with God. My hope is God will comfort you during this time of grief and beyond.



#49 from: Christine A Lichtenberger
Waldo
Thu, Jan 21, 2021 at 2:27 PM

Thoughts and prayers for all of the Russell family. Craig and Chris Lichtenberger



#50 from: Annie Ralph
Delaware Ohio
Fri, Jan 22, 2021 at 10:38 AM

Lesta, I am so sorry for your loss. I know your memories will be a great comfort to you. Prayers for your family🙏🙏🙏✝️



#51 from: Cyntha Hansen
 
Fri, Jan 22, 2021 at 2:47 PM

Kara was a wonderful and kind person. I worked with her for many years on Provider Credentialing issues. She was always smiling, caring and very professional. This world has lost a good soul. Her wonderful memories will always remain with you.  



#52 from: Charla Clunk
Marion
Fri, Jan 22, 2021 at 6:01 PM

Of the 3 Basel girls I always thought of Kara as the quiet one but she wasn't really. There was a twinkle in her eye, a great smile and a warm heart she will be missed
Love and prayers to her family and friends.



#53 from: Michelle Mckinney-Harris
 
Fri, Jan 22, 2021 at 8:09 PM

I’m so sorry for your loss of Kara. I am amazed at all she has accomplished, and her family being the most cherished of them. We were fast friends upon meeting. I was beyond happy to have been able to connect with her again recently, if only for a short time. She fought hard. Prayers for your comfort.



#54 from: Kellie Thompson-Coy
Florida
Sat, Jan 23, 2021 at 9:53 AM

I remember Kara as lively, loving and always smiling. This world will be less without her.  My deepest condolances.



#55 from: Barbara A Lyon
Winter Garden , Fla.
Sat, Jan 23, 2021 at 10:18 AM

Basel & Russell families, may you remember Kara as a bright & shining angel. God needed her in his kingdom. , may she Rest In Peace. Keep the good memories in your hearts. God Bless



#56 from: Eric Bash
BWC
Sun, Jan 24, 2021 at 10:03 PM

I enjoyed many great years as Kara being my co-worker and supervisor. She was a wonderful person that was always there to help you with any questions you might have. I will miss her laugh, kindness and friendship.
I always enjoyed all of her baked goods especially those delicious cream puffs. Those were my favorite! It was always great to hear about her family and the vacations to the U.P. of Michigan.
The family has my sincere sorrow for their loss. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this time.  



#57 from: Jeanne and Tom Coy
Toledo
Tue, Jan 26, 2021 at 10:59 AM

So sorry for your loss, a super gal, and a very loving cousin.



#58 from: Dennis and Phyllis Coy
Maumee, Ohio
Tue, Jan 26, 2021 at 2:46 PM

We send our condolences  to Michael and family.  Kara will always be remembered in our family for her  warm personality and friendship. Along with her sisters, we  always enjoyed  the family  association with  her father  and my cousin Duane  and her  mother  Lesta..  We will never forget those good old days..  








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