Russell Day

Russell Dean Day died on Thursday, March 16, 2023, at the age of 87.

Russell was born the son of Cleal and Helen (McMullin) Day on October 21, 1935, in Wellington.

On February 5, 1956, Russell and Vaundalia were united in marriage at the Church of Christ in Wellington. Together they celebrated 60 years of marriage.

Upon graduation from Wellington High School, Russell attended Cowley County Community College.

Once Russell completed his Associate’s degree, he joined the army to serve his country. He was called to duty on his wedding day. After completing basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, his new bride joined him at Fort Polk, Louisiana.

Upon leaving the Army, he returned home to join in on running the family farm. Russell and the love of his life, Vaundalia, grew their family and enjoyed living on the farm. They welcomed their first child Lisa in 1959, followed by Rusty in 1962 and Mitchell in 1963.

Russell spent 53 years doing what he loved, farming. In his free time, he enjoyed flying. Russell was a flight instructor and charter pilot and had his own aerial spray plane business with his brother Arlis.

Upon retiring from farming, he and Vaundalia moved into town and continued to watch their family grow. Russell enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was always ready to play a game of Wahoo, cards, or BINGO, and he somehow would always manage to win. Russell was very passionate about his love for the church, the farm, and his beloved animals, especially his cat Finley.

Survivors include his children: Lisa Seirer (Rocky) of Wakefield; Rusty Day of Los Angeles, California; Mitchell Day (Lori) of Wellington; grandchildren: Tyson Seirer (Casey), Marcus Seirer (Faith), Colton Day (Cecily), Shawna Seirer, Meridith Day; great-grandchildren: Brynlee Seirer, Cayson Seirer, Addison Seirer, Camilla Seirer, Tanner Day, Pryce Day and his brother, Arlis Day.

He is preceded in death by his parents, wife, Vaundalia Day and his sister, Myrnal Beal.

Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 2 to 7 p.m. Thursday, March 23, 2023, with the family being present from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Funeral services for Russell will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, March 24, 2023, at the Church of Christ in Wellington.

A memorial has been established in his name to the Wellington Humane Society and the Church of Christ. Contributions may be mailed or left with the funeral home.

Share a memory, leave condolences or sign his digital tribute wall at www.cornejofuneralhome.com.

Arrangements by Cornejo Funeral Home + Crematory, 1030 Mission Road, Wellington.