Russell Joseph Maes' Obituary
Russell Joseph "Russ" Maes
November 25, 1940 – May 27, 2026
Russell Joseph Maes, lovingly known to all as "Russ," passed away peacefully at his home on May 27, 2026 at the age of 85, a long time resident of Madison Heights, Michigan. He was born in Detroit, Michigan.
Russ proudly served his country in the United States Air Force as an Air Policeman with the 449th Combat Defense Squadron. Following his honorable military service, he embarked on a long and successful career with Valenite in 1964, dedicating decades of hard work there until his retirement. It was during his time at Valenite that he met the true love of his life, Sharon, beginning a beautiful partnership filled with devotion, laughter, and endless adventure.
An avid outdoorsman, Russ embraced life with a vibrant, youthful enthusiasm. He loved hunting, archery, golfing, fishing, boating, and riding motorcycles. Even in his later years, his adventurous spirit never waned; just a few years ago, he purchased a Harley-Davidson motorcycle, delighting in riding the back roads near the family cabin and cherishing the feeling of complete freedom.
Russ had a giant heart for animals, especially dogs. Trips to the family cabin always included a special roadside stop to visit a local German Shepherd, who would eagerly run out with a ball, instantly recognizing his old friend. At home, Russ could often be found happily catching a baseball game on television or playing games on his phone. He was also famously known for his appreciation of a good glass of red wine, always arriving to dinner with a bottle to share, and his uncanny, lighthearted talent for sniffing out the hidden "good candy" in relatives' homes—especially his sister’s.
Above all, Russ was defined by his integrity, kindness, and unwavering generosity. He was the kind of man who would help anyone at a moment’s notice. His profound compassion was beautifully reflected in his friendship with Regina, who was blind; Russ would purposefully arrive early to restaurants just so he could be waiting to offer his arm and proudly escort her inside with dignity and a smile. In his later years, that same selflessness shone brightly as he lovingly and devotedly cared for Sharon through surgeries and illnesses. He spoke of his wife, children, and grandchildren with immense pride, and his warm hugs, infectious smile, and booming laugh will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Russ is survived by his devoted wife, Sharon Onyskin; his sister, Sandra Morrow; his children, Deborah (Mike) Miller, Jo-Dee Sharp, Kelly (Karen) Templeton Navarre, and Keith Maes. He was a proud grandfather to Drew Maes, Lily Maes, Alicia Maes, Amanda Smith, Jackie Smith, Dalton Templeton, and Kayla Templeton. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Maes and Vera Lambert Maes, and by his beloved son, Russell "Rusty" Maes.
Rest in peace, Russ. May Heaven’s golf course be magnificent, and may your spirit make it even more magical.
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