Russell Zavalney , 85, of Butte and Velva, ND, died Wednesday, July 17, 2013 at a Minot nursing home.

Russell was born January 7, 1928 in Dogden Township, near Butte, ND to John and Daisy (Kankovsky) Zavalney. Russell was educated at Butte public school and attended the Christian Faith Church.

He assisted his parents on the family farm until December 9th, 1955 when he entered the U.S. Navy for two years and was stationed at Base Long Beach, California (Tug Boat 266). After his discharge on December 9th, 1957, he returned and farmed on the family farm. During those years he also worked for the McLean County as a road grader/snow remover. Russell was once married to Elaine Zacher. In 1991, Russell moved to his brother's farm. Later he became a resident of the Souris Valley Care Center, then the Brentmoor Assisted Living, and finally the ManorCare Health Services.

Russell was a member of the Eagles Aerie Club of Minot, ND. He enjoyed the American way of life and nature.

Russell is survived by his brother, Clarence (Joyce) Zavalney, Velva, ND, and his sisters Emma 'Dusty' Grabowski, Mission Viejo, CA and Delphine 'Dee' (Delbert) Bauer, Butte, ND; six nieces, three nephews, many great nieces and nephews, and cousins.

Russell was preceded in death by his parents John and Daisy (Kankovsky) Zavalney.

Funeral Service: 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, July 24th, 2013 at Thomas Family Funeral Home Minot, ND.
Interment: Butte Cemetery, Butte, ND at 11:45 a.m. with Military Honors.
Fellowship : Butte American Legion Hall following the graveside service.
Visitation: Tuesday, July 23, 2013 from 2:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.