Russel P Scantlen, 78, of Defiance, passed away on Monday, May 20, 2013 at Mercy Hospital of Defiance .

He was born on October 6, 1934 to the late Paul and Marian (Clark) Scantlen in Williams Co, OH. On November 28, 1958 he married Carolyn (Kissner) Scantlen.

Russel was a member of St. John's Catholic Church and retired from John Manville after 34 years. He honorably served in the US Army. He was a member of the Amvets, a life member of VFW Post 3360 and a life member of Eagles Aerie 372. He enjoyed camping, Lake Erie fishing, his family and friends.

Russel is survived by his wife, Carolyn, daughter, Jenny Reliford of Defiance, son, John (Karen) Scantlen of Livonia, MI, grandchildren, Whitney Reliford, Rachel Reliford, Katie Heller, great-grandchildren, Daijlynn Vellanueva, Bentley Zebolwsky, brother, Robert (Irene) Scantlen of Ney, sisters, Linda Hull of Ft. Wayne, IN, and Shirley Stevens of Defiance.

He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter, Julie Heller, granddaughter, Anna Marie Heller, brothers, Donald & James Scantlen.

Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, May 24, 2013, at St. John's Catholic Church with Father Todd Dominique officiating. Burial will follow at Riverview Memory Gardens with military rites being accorded by VFW Post 3360. Visitation will be from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Thursday, May 23, 2013 at Schaffer Funeral Home, Defiance. A vigil service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.

The family suggest memorials be made to the American Heart Association.