Michel Lee Russell

Michel L (Mike) Russell, age 78, crossed the rainbow bridge September 17, 2026, in Wichita, Kansas. He joined many cats, who passed before him. He is survived by Nancy Staats Russell, his beloved wife of 45 years and his three cats Foster, Lizzie, and Mini-Kitty. Mike grew up in El Dorado, Kansas and was the son of Howard and Mary Lou Russell, both deceased. He was preceded in death by his brother Steven in 1991.

Friends remember Mike as a colorful character. In his younger days, he worked at Kirby’s Beer Store, the Boulevard Theatre and was a gun fighter at Cowtown. He was a member of the Delta Upsilon Fraternity chapter at Wichita State University.

Mike earned a business degree and later returned to WSU to obtain a geology degree. He followed his father’s footsteps by working as a petroleum geologist, primarily in western Kansas in the late 1980’s. After taking courses in environmental science, he then moved to Hawaii to work for long time friend, Hal Clark.

After moves to Oklahoma City, Austin, and Clearwater, Florida, and a year with US Customs in Laredo, Texas Mike returned to join Nancy at their 100-year-old farmhouse “Cat Ranch” near Rose Hill. Later they moved to Andover where Mike worked at Dillon’s until retiring.

Mike and Nancy built their dream house in Edinburg, Texas in 2012, and moved there with their 13 cats in 2013. While in Texas, Mike enjoyed working out with his friend and trainer Gabe Pena and supporting his strongman career. Two years ago, Mike and Nancy felt drawn to return ‘home’ to Wichita, moving to a house in the neighborhood where Nancy grew up. She lovingly cared for Mike there as he struggled with his final illness. She is still in their home and anticipates reconnecting with old friends and discovering art resources in Wichita.

A celebration of Mike’s life will be planned for a later date.

In his memory, please consider donating to this local nonprofit feline rescue supported by Mike and Nancy:

Country Cats, Inc.

Attn: Sherlyn Moore

PO Box 37

Andover, KS 67002

(316) 775-2288

countrycatsrescue@gmail.com