Michael Kent McKune, 63, of Essex, Maryland, and former Russell resident died on Sunday, January 12, 2014, at his home in Essex.

Michael was born on July 01, 1950, in Stafford, Kansas, the son of Robert M. and Gladys (Hicks) McKune.  At a young age his family moved to Russell where he grew up, attended local schools and graduated from Russell High School in 1969. During high school, he excelled at track and football. After graduating high school Michael joined the United States Army.  He was an avid fan of Baltimore Ravens Football, Baltimore Oriels Baseball and Kansas University Jayhawk Basketball.

Surviving family include his mother Gladys Hatfield of Russell; brothers David McKune and wife Kathleen of Olathe, Kansas, Kevin McKune and wife Rose, and Steven McKune all of Russell; sisters Deborah McKune of Hays, Kansas and Kathleen Newton of Russell.

He was preceded in death by his father Robert M. McKune.

A graveside celebration of Michael’s life will be held at 10 A.M. on Friday, January 17, 2014, at the Russell City Cemetery in Russell, Kansas with Pastor Bob McCobb officiating.  Burial will follow at the Russell City Cemetery.  Military rites will be conducted by the Russell V.F.W. Post #6240 military honor guard.  Visitation will be from 4 P.M. to 8 P.M. at the mortuary with the family present to greet guest from 5 P.M. to 7 P.M. Thursday Evening.  Memorials may be given towards the Evercare Hospice who has assisted Michael the last several months.  Memorials can be sent in care of the mortuary.  Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas is in charge of the funeral service arrangements.