Russell Eugene Showman was born on January 13, 1926, in Windom, Minnesota to the late Elmer and Margaret (Stephan) Showman. He received his education in the Windom Public Schools. After finishing his education, Russell farmed in Delafield Township, Jackson County, Minnesota. In 1954, Russell enlisted in the United States Army. On February 4, 1956, Russell was united in marriage to Elsbeth Fuchtler in Germany during Russell's military service. In 1956, Russell was honorably discharged from the Army and returned to Delafield Township with Elsbeth to farm. At the age of 62, Russell and Elsbeth retired from farming but continued to live on the family farm until five years ago when they moved into their current home in Windom. One year ago, Russell suffered a stroke and ten days ago, Russell's health declined to where he was hospitalized at the Veteran's Administration Hospital in Sioux Falls, South Dakota where he passed away on Sunday evening, April 27, 2008, at the wonderful age of 82. Russell was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Windom. He also was a member of the American Legion Post in Windom and the Windom Lion's Club. Russell's enjoyments in life included fishing in his earlier years, farming, his Dixon mower, car auctions, going to Hardee's while living on the farm, and playing cards-especially at the Windom Community Center. Russell will be remembered for being a fun loving person who enjoyed to laugh, along with being a dedicated and loving husband, father, and grandpa. Russell's dedicated family who mourns his loss includes his wife of fifty-two years, Elsbeth Showman of Windom; one daughter, Inge Richter and her husband, Darron of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; two grandchildren, Joseph and Elizabath Richter of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; one brother, Forrest Showman and his wife, Lillian of Jackson; and several nieces and nephews. Russell is preceded in death by his parents; two children, Larry and Mary Showman; two brothers, Stanley and Milord Showman; and one sister, Edith Code.