Russell F. Sarrine, Jr.

Russell F. Sarrine Jr., 80, of Fort Gratiot Township, died Thursday, February 12, 2026.

He was born July 9, 1945 in Saginaw to the late Helen (Moskal) and Russell Sarrine Sr. He married Mary Ellen Monroe on October 2, 1971 in Jackson.

Russ was a devoted husband, father, son, brother and friend. Blessed with the natural talent of an athlete, he excelled at both football and baseball. He loved music and could frequently be heard playing his guitar and singing any one of a number of his favorite songs.

Engineer minded at his core, Russ had an extraordinary ability to figure things out and fix almost anything. Whether it was a stubborn motor, a tricky situation or a problem no one else would attempt, he approached it with innate, know how clever creativity and dogged determination.

Beyond his natural talents, Russ loved fishing. It was much more that a hobby for him. It was a passion.

Competition could be intense for the Munuscong Cup, the trophy pursued during July family vacation on the St. Marys River. Russ’ skill, coupled with the pure joy of being out on that water in his Aquasport resulted in multiple wins over the years. He was generous in sharing his time and knowledge, often taking nieces, nephews, brothers and cousins out to share the experience, and it was rare to come back empty handed if going out with “Uncle Russ”.

Russ graduated from Michigan State University and loved cheering on his Spartans. He also enjoyed supporting the Detroit Lions, Tigers and Red Wings, always with an unshakeable sense of hope no matter the scoreboard.

His sense of hope was only matched by his loyalty to close family and friends. He will be deeply missed and though our hearts ache, we are forever grateful for the gift of Russ in our lives.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Mary Ellen Sarrine; son, Russell Sarrine III (fiancée Tracy Lohman); three brothers, Edward (Susan), Robert (Leesa) and Thomas (Christy) Sarrine; two nieces and two nephews, Eddie, Nicole, Kirk and Hanna; many close cousins; and several amazing and supportive neighbors/friends. He was preceded in death by his nephew, Bret.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 12 noon on Wednesday, March 25, 2026 in Queen of the Miraculous Medal Church, 1111 Carlton Blvd., Jackson, MI 49203 with visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. The Reverend Tim MacDonald will officiate.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Arrangements are by Pollock-Randall Funeral Home. To send condolences, visit pollockrandall.com