Russell Huff

Russell Curtis Huff, 71, of Gothenburg, Nebraska, passed away on Thursday, February 18th as a result of a motor scooter accident near Brady, Nebraska.

He was born on July 21, 1944 in La Junta, Colorado to Pauline Ellen and Russell Loyal Huff.

Russ grew up in La Junta, then joined the Air Force upon his high school graduation. He served with honor for four years in the Air Force as an aircraft mechanic. Stationed in various places during the four years, his last post during service was Vietnam.

When released from active duty, Russ moved to North Platte, Nebraska to be near family. He became a professional photographer, and moved to Gothenburg in 1973 after purchasing the old Krekeler Studio and opened Photography by Russ.

He met his wife Brenda in Gothenburg when she returned after her service with the U.S. Army. They were married in Las Vegas, Nevada on January 6th, 1978. Russ and Brenda embarked on a life of adventure and travel, living in Arizona, Nevada, Nebraska, and Taiwan. In Taiwan, Russ completed an advanced Teachers of English degree and became an English instructor and mentor to many doctors and nurses. One proud accomplishment was winning a Distinctive Contribution award from the Executive Yuan for his role in transforming Tri-Service General Hospital into an excellent English environment.

Following Russ’ return to Gothenburg in 2007, he enjoyed a variety of activities. Woodworking, building and flying remote-control airplanes, and motorcycle/scooter riding were three of his passions. Russ’ big heart led him to bring a most excellent black cocker spaniel named Poco into his and Brenda’s lives on April 12, 2013.

He was baptized in fatih at the First Baptist Church in Gothenburg on July 12th, 1984.

Surviving are spouse Brenda (Gothenburg/Grand Island, NE), siblings Paula (Tom) Richardson (Mesquite, NV), Jim Huff (Nashville, TN), Jay Huff (North Platte, NE), and Sam Kibler (North Platte, NE), father-in-law Norman Porter (Gothenburg, NE), brothers-in-law Brad (Mary) Porter (Fremont, NE), Bill Porter (Gothenburg, NE), sister-in-law Beth (Mark) Jones (Midwest City, OK). Nieces and nephews include Adam and Megan Porter, Amanda, Peter, and Stacie Jones, Randy and Brian Milleson, and Kacie Kibler.

Russ was preceded in death by his mother and stepfather, Polly and S. J. (Bud) Kibler, brother Sid Kibler, mother-in-law Margaret Porter and brothers-in law Bruce and Brian Porter.

A graveside memorial service will take place at Fort McPherson National Cemetery south of Maxwell, Nebraska at 11:00 on Friday, February 26th with Pastor Larry Viter officiating. Luncheon will follow at the First Baptist Church in Gothenburg.

Suggestions for memorials: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Start Over Rover (Hastings, NE), Child Fund International.