Melanie Sue Russell

Melanie Sue Russell, 77, of Elkhart, IN passed away at home on January 14, 2026. She was born on November 6, 1948 to William Byronand Geanette Elizabeth Collie in Rockford, IL.

She loved collecting chicken knickknacks and reading. Melanie worked as a waitress in her younger years before becoming a homemaker, staying home to raise her children.

Melanie is survived by her children; Dennis (Christi) O’Connor of Indianapolis, IN, Billy Michael of CA, Bobby Michael of Bay Point, CA, and Karen (Brian) Cannon of Auburn, GA along with a granddaughter, Paige O’Connor. Melanie was preceded in death by her husband, Steve Russell.

In keeping with the family’s wishes, there will be no services at this time. Stemm-Lawson-Peterson Funeral Home, 1531 Cobblestone Boulevard, Elkhart, IN 46514, is assisting Melanie’s family. Condolences may be left online at www.stemmlawsonpeterson.com.