Russell Duane Cebulski

Russell Duane Cebulski, 96, passed away October 13, 2024, at the Phillips County Hospital in Malta, Mont.

Russ was born April 20, 1928, to Nick and Bertha (Mitchell) Cebulski in the Edwards House just north of the old Milk River Bridge. Russ joined his parents and older brother Raymond. Russ and Raymond worked with their parents in whatever they could make a living at farming, ranching, and laundry. While Nick and Bertha owned the laundry, Ray and Russ delivered laundry with bikes and wagon, Russ always said the Ladies of the Green Front gave the best tips, candy, pop and such.

He graduated from Malta High School. Russ worked with Raymond at Miller Brothers cowboying. He delivered gas for many years. In 1968, Russ started Russareo Flying Service, his son Kenny joined the Flying Service in 1973 and in 1981 Russ sold the business to Kenny, returning to help spray for many years. He later sold real estate and worked for Zortman Mining as a security guard and parts runner. Russ and Julia rented apartments to many for many years while they lived in Zortman. He was a member of the Little White Church. Russ ran the Phillips County Ambulance for five years and served on the Zortman Water Board and Phillips County Civil Defense.

He enjoyed spending time fishing and flying. Russ always had a story to tell, and his one-liners most always got a laugh. If he could pull a joke or prank on someone, he was happy.

A special thank you goes out to Tony and Emily from Rivers Bend Assisted Living for the care and love shown during his time with them. To the Liars Club fellows, please remember all his stories and one-liners and use as needed.

Russ married the love of his life Julia Mae Warren on June 23, 1951, and they were married for 71 years, being blessed with three boys and two girls.

Russ is survived by his sons Duane (Deb) Cebulski, Nick (Debbie) Cebulski, daughters Ginger (Paul) Knox, Iris Robinson, brother Raymond Cebulski, brothers-in-law Bruce (Robin) Warren, Pete James, 15 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Russ was preceded in death by his parents, loving wife Julia, in-laws, sister-in-law Barbara Cebulski, sister-in-law Thelma James, son Kenny Cebulski, grandson Duane Webb, and son-in-law Clyde Robinson.

Honorary Pallbearers: all his grandchildren and friends at the Liars Club.

The Funeral Service will be Saturday, November 23, 2024, at 11 a.m. at Wilderness Funeral Homes in Malta, with burial at the Malta Cemetery.

Wilderness Funeral Homes of Malta has been entrusted with the arrangements and service.