Lawrence Russell Vedder, 80, of Richland, was born to Edgar S. and Ella Herbst Vedder on February 1, 1922, in Gibbs, ID and crossed to the other side after a valiant battle with several illnesses on Sunday, February 3, 2002, at Kadlec Medical Center, Richland, WA.  His family was at his side at his passing.

Mr. Vedder was a boilermaker for the Kennewick School District.  During World War II, he served with U. S. Navy Patrol Squadron VP-201 as a bombardier.  December 14, 1945 he was discharged with the rank of Aviation Ordinanceman Second Class.

After raising his family, he turned to public service by joining the local Civil Air Patrol CAP.  He enjoyed traveling, working on his family history, fishing and camping.

Russ is survived by his wife of 52 years, Jane Vedder; his children, Fredalin Zeller, Mary Potter of West Richland, Russell Vedder of Kennewick, and Frank Vedder of Richland; 15 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.  Lois Lawson, his sister, and numerous nieces and nephews will also mourn their loss.

Russ was preceded in death by his seven brothers and his parents.

A memorial service with full military honors will be officiated by V.F.W. Cook-Erickson Post 7952 at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 9, 2002, at Einan’s Funeral Home.  Inurnment will be in Squaw Bay School Cemetery near Coeur d’Alene, ID at a later date