John Fred Mai, 97 of Russell died Wednesday evening, June 8, 2011 at the Hays Medical Center in Hays, Kansas.

Fred was born October 16, 1913 in Holcomb, Kansas the son of George Adam and Sophie (Kerbs) Mai.  He grew up in Wakeeney and graduated from Treco County High School in 1931.

Fred was united in marriage to Lydia Mai on June 26, 1938 in Wakeeney.  This union was blessed with a son, Marvin.

Fred served his country in the U.S. Army during WWII.  He was with Patton’s 3rd Army in Europe as an interpreter.  After the war he returned to Russell.

Fred worked for Safeway as a manager in Ellsworth, Garden City, Wichita and returned to Russell in 1950.  He retired from Safeway in 1976.  He then worked for H&R Block during the tax season for over 13 years.

Fred was a member of St. John Lutheran Church.  He was a life member of both the Russell V.F.W. Post # 6240 and Russell American Legion #99.  He enjoyed traveling to see family and friends and taking trips with the Russell’s senior group.

Surviving family include his wife of 72 years, Lydia of the home; son Marvin Mai and wife Pat of Santa Rosa, California; sister Martha Daniels of Hays, Kansas; two grandchildren Kevin and Brian; two great grandchildren Mitchell and Kyra; brother-in-laws Alex Mai, Paul Mai and wife Shirley; sister-in-law Helen Keil and husband Glenn.  He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Elmer Mai and sisters Elsie Riggs and Esther Turner.