He was born on August 26, 1959 in Marion to David E. and Judy L. (Careins) Trees and was a graduate of Blackford High School in 1978. Russell married Donna Haas in Hartford City on November 23, 2006. She survives. Surviving are: his wife, Donna; daughters, Christina E. (Edwards) Riddle (Jeff, Jr.) and  Megan C. Edwards; son, Samuel T. Edwards; foster children, Renee Jenkins and Korie Jenkins; his mother, Judy L. Trees; brothers, Mark, Steve (Angie) and Bruce (Bobbie Sue) Trees; sister-in-law, Diane (Robert) McEniry; and three grandchildren,  several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. Funeral service will be 11:30 a.m. Saturday, April 18 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Rev. Bobby Thomas officiating. Burial will follow in Matthews Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the family for funeral expenses.