Deceased September 27
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In Memory
The Class of 1940 has lost an additional stalwart member with the death of Russ Fowler on September 27.
Known as a swimmer and active member of Phi Kappa Psi, Russ was a cheerful presence on campus and, in the classroom, a student of economics and history.
After graduation, he trained for a year in the intern program at Jordan Marsh Company, a leading Boston department store.
Volunteering for the navy in 1941, Russ, a decorated flier, rose to the rank of Lieutenant Commander at the time of his discharge in 1941. He then returned to Jackson, MI, his hometown, went into merchandising, and, at his retirement in 1993, was chairman of the board, emeritus, of Jacobson Stores, Inc., the leading department store.
Russ was born, raised, and spent his life as a citizen of Jackson, where the long list of the organizations of which he was a leader eloquently testifies to his status over many years as a foremost member of the community.
The Fowlers escaped the cold and snow of Michigan by becoming regular winter residents of a condominium in Highland Beach, FL.
Russ leaves his widow, Dorthalene, and two sons, John R. Jr. and James B. To them the Class sends condolences laced with happy memories.
—Louis P. Dolbeare ’40