Russell W. Hunsberger of Gloucester, passed peacefully in his sleep on Aug. 19, 2011, after a battle with leukemia. He was 69.

Russ was born in Philadelphia, lived in California following service in the military, and made Gloucester, Va., his home in 1981.

Russ was a charter member of the Knights of Columbus at St. Therese Church. He was the owner of Russ’s Express Mart, and subsequently retired from Colonial Williamsburg.

Russ is survived by his wife, Cathy; sons, Russ and Stephen; daughter, Derry Ann Hammond; granddaughter, Megan Vought; great-granddaughters, Ryleigh and Allie Vought, and stepchildren Craig Ismail, Suzanne Gillespie, Sandra Elliott, and Ramsey Ismail.

Russ’s passions included traveling, gardening, Las Vegas, painting in oils, and history. One did not ask Russ a question about history without a half-hour to spare. After his retirement he took up cooking (his wife says it was in self-defense), and became famous for his stews and chilis. His quirky sense of humor was well-known to family, friends and co-workers. He is sorely missed by all.

Services will be held Sept. 3 at 11 a.m. at the Church of St. Therese in Gloucester Court House.