Russell James Palkendo, 71, of Hanover Street, Northumberland, passed away on Wednesday, Nov. 21, 2018, at his home.

He was born Nov. 28, 1946, in East Mauch Chunk, Pa., a son of the late Arlene (Youngkin) Koch and Russell E. Koch. He was married on Dec. 29, 1968, to Sue (Schohl) in Lehighton, Pa., a marital union of almost 50 years.

After graduation from Jim Thorpe High School, Russ received a bachelor of science and master of education degrees from Bloomsburg State College. He worked for 35 years in the Selinsgrove School District as a special education, gifted ed and social studies teacher retiring in 2004. Russ said that the best part of teaching was EVERYTHING - the kids, fellow workers and teaching itself.

He was a coach for his sons Little League and soccer teams and served on the Boy Scout committee for Troop 342. He also coached the forensics team and chess club at Selinsgrove High School; was coordinator for the regional Special Olympics; sponsored students and judged competitions for PA Junior Academy of Science. He loved to play games - chess, poker, bridge, pinochle...ANY game with family and friends. He also had a great love of food - all kinds, but those closest to him will always remember his fondness of soups. He was treasurer of the Northumberland Lions Club and was a life member of PSEA and NEA.

Known as Russ to many, Riverboat Russ to colleagues and Gramps to family, he will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his wife Sue; son, Douglas and wife Julie of Kutztown; son, Michael and wife Renee of Perkasie; and granddaughters, Lillian and Elizabeth.

At Russ' request there will be no funeral services. Family will welcome visitors from 3 to 6 p.m. Monday, Nov. 26, at their home, 208 Hanover St., Northumberland.

Contributions in Russ' memory may be made to Northumberland Lions Club, c/o: Bill Gross, 105 Terrace St., Northumberland, PA 17857.

Arrangements are by the Joseph W. Epler Funeral Home, 210 King St., Northumberland.