Bennie D. Stoppel, 75 of Russell died Saturday, August 30, 2008 at Russell Regional Hospital.  Bennie was born October 19, 1932 in rural Bunker Hill, Kansas.  He grew up in Bunker Hill until the 7^th grade when his family moved to Dorrance.  He graduated from Dorrance High School.

Bennie was united in marriage to Janice C. Strecker on October 20, 1957 at the St. John Lutheran Church in Russell.  This union was bless with three sons; Bradley, Blaine and Michael.

He was a farmer and feed salesman.  He also drove a school bus for Russell School District #407 for over 20 years.

He was a member of St. Johns Lutheran Church and was on the church council for many years.  He also belong to the Russell County Extension Council, Russell County Township Board, RWD #2 Board of Directors and was on the Board for the Russell County 4-H Fair for many years.

Bennie’s surviving family include his wife of 50 years Janice of the home; three sons, Bradley, Blaine and wife Kim and Michael and wife Debbie all of Russell; two brothers, Jr. Dale Stoppel and wife Lillian of Luray and Gerald Stoppel of Russell; one sister, LaDora Meier and husband Glenn of Wichita; five grandchildren, Brooke, Blake, Brady, Payton and Garret; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

Celebration of Bennie’s Life will be held at 10:30 AM Wednesday, September 3, 2008 at St. Johns Lutheran Church with Pastor Roger Dennis officiating.  Visitation will be from 9 AM to 8 PM Tuesday with the family present to greet friends from 6 PM to 7 PM.  Memorials have been established with ST. John Lutheran Church of Russell and the 4-H Development Fund.  Contributions and condolences may be left with Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell who are in charge of these arrangements.  Condolences may also be sent via email at www.pvpmortuary.com.