Alexander R. Mai, 87, of Russell, Kansas, died on Thursday, October 30, 2014, at the Russell Regional Hospital.

Alex was born on June 24, 1927 in Russell, Kansas, the son of Reinhardt and Maria "Mary" (Ehrlich) Mai.  He grew up in the Russell area and attended Russell public schools.  He met, fell in love and was united in marriage to Violet D. Kraft on June 18, 1950 in Russell.  From this union Alex and Violet were blessed with their son John.  Violet preceded Alex in death on October 14, 2007.  He worked most of his life as a truck driver and was employed with Agco Inc. in Russell as a bulk gas truck driver for many years.  He was a longtime member of St. John Lutheran Church in Russell.  He was also a member of the Elks, American Legion Post #99 and was Past Commander of the V.F.W. Post #6240 in Russell.  He enjoyed farming, hunting, gambling, playing cards, polka dancing and having card parties in his home.

He is survived by his son John Mai and wife Jackie of Naperville, Illinois; two granddaughters Katie Mai of Bloomington-Normal, Illinois and Alex Mai of St. Louis, Missouri.

He was also preceded in death by his parents, brothers Edward Mai, Emmanuel Mai, and Paul Mai; sisters Lydia Mai, Pauline Kyle and Helen Keil.

A celebration of Alex's life will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Tuesday, November 04, 2014, at the St. John Lutheran Church in Russell with Pastor Roger Dennis officiating.  Burial will take place at the Russell City Cemetery.  Visitation will be from 9 A.M. to 8 P.M. on Monday, November 03, 2014, at the mortuary with family greeting guests from 6 P.M. to 7 P.M. Monday evening.  Memorial may be given to the St. John Lutheran Church and sent in care of the mortuary.  Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary in Russell is in charge of the funeral service arrangements.