Russell D. Kallwick

LONGVIEW — Russell D. Kallwick, 85, of Longview passed away April 25, 2018, at the Hospice Care Center. He was born Dec. 14, 1932, in Coeur d’ Alene, ID., to Conrad and Margaret Kallwick. He graduated from Coeur d’Alene High School in 1951, and married his high school sweetheart Barbara Fudge in 1952.

Russ started his working career in Coeur d’Alene as a meat cutter. He moved his young family to Longview in 1962, and his dedicated work ethic as a journeyman meat cutter was a stepping-stone to a life of successful business ownerships.

In the 1970s he owned multiple grocery stores and founded Kallwick Construction. He later built, owned, and operated several convenience stores in the local area. He had a true entrepreneurial spirit and found his true passion in his later years by owning and operating the Long Beach Tavern for 18 years. He hosted an annual Long Beach Tavern Picnic that was enjoyed and attended by many.

“Big Russ” was very proud of his Norwegian heritage, and enjoyed a special trip to the Scandinavian countries with his wife, sister and brother-in-law in 1980. He was known for his generous spirit and dominant personality. He made lifelong friendships with people from all walks of life. He loved his family and looked forward to family gatherings. Russ was very proud of his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and always carried a recent picture to share with others. He enjoyed having a few beers with his good friends, and for many years he traveled with his fast pitch softball teams that he sponsored. Watching sports was one of his favorite pastimes.

Russ was a member of the Loyal Order of Moose Lodge, and was a committed 60 year member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles.

Russ is survived by his wife of 65 years, Barbara; four daughters, Terri Lappe (Jerry), Claudia Combs (Harold), Shelly Alexander (George), Tracy Manning (Kenneth); one son, Russell K. Kallwick (Lisa); 14 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Marvin Kallwick and Evert Kallwick, and one sister, June Everson.

A memorial service was held on May 5 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Longview. A private family graveside service was held at Green Hills Memorial Gardens in Kelso.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church or the Hospice Care Center.