Russell Roy “Van” Van Wie

07/03/1936 - 01/24/2026

Russell Roy “Van” Van Wie, 89, of Pendleton, Kentucky, passed away peacefully at home on January 24, 2026.

Originally from Erie, Pennsylvania, Van was a proud veteran who served in the United States Air Force in his youth—an experience that forged the discipline he carried throughout his life. Following his service, he dedicated many years to Philip Morris, where he eventually retired as a fireman.

Retirement, however, was merely a change of pace for Van. A natural entrepreneur, he owned and operated several businesses over the years. He was a man who found purpose in productivity, famously working right up until the day he passed. Van believed in staying active, solving problems, and the value of a hard day’s labor. When he wasn’t managing his businesses, he found peace outdoors as a devoted caretaker to his chickens, finding unique joy in the daily chores of tending to his flock.

Van is survived by his children: Michael Howell (Michelle), Debby Bale (Mike), and Johnrussell Van Wie (Shelley). He also leaves behind several grandchildren, including Jennifer Howell, Angela May, Shawne Portman (Julia), Monica Daugherty, Cammie Howell, Charlie Howell (Veronica), Brandon Van Wie, and Zachary Van Wie; as well as great-grandchildren Kevin Chow, Nolan Van Wie, and Nova Van Wie. Additional survivors include his long-time friend and caretaker, Ed Garcia; his brother, Jerry Strain; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Russell Van Wie and Elizabeth Strain; his siblings, LuLa Van Wie, Bill Van Wie, and Georgie Van Wie; and his daughter, LaDonna Appell.

The family will be holding a private service to celebrate his life.