Russell Tiede

Russell Louis Tiede, 86, passed away in his home on May 7, 2015, with his loving wife Janet at his side. He leaves his wife of nearly 58 years, Janet (Potter) Tiede; son Glenn Russell Tiede and wife Mary; daughter Carolyn Besalke and husband Tyler; son Jon Tiede and wife Lynn; and five grandchildren, Chelsea (Besalke) Klunick and husband Kyle, Andrew Besalke, Logan Besalke, Colton Russell Tiede and Jenna Tiede. He is also survived by three brothers and one sister and many extended family members. He was proceeded in death by his parents and brother, Donald. Russ was born January 27, 1929 on a farm outside of Parkston, South Dakota to Solomon (Sam) and Emma Tiede, where he grew up and worked along with his four brothers, Don, Lowell, Jerry, Dennis and sister, Dorothy. He attended South Dakota State University, where he received his Bachelor of Science. Upon graduation, he went on to teach music and math at Bridgewater from 1950-1955, where he met his bride to be, Janet, whom he married in 1957. He went on to earn his MS in Music Education in 1956 and an Ed. D in Music Education in 1971, both at the University of Illinois. In between his post-graduate stints, Russ taught junior high music in Sioux Falls, SD. The majority of Russ's career was spent at Millikin University, starting in 1968, and where he went on to serve for 25 years as a member of their music faculty teaching music education and applied French horn and tuba. His life was dedicated to teaching education and music in public schools and college. One of Russ's great loves was playing in the faculty brass quintet at Millikin with his musician friends. He also served for many years as the choir director at his church. Russ enjoyed golfing with his wife, Janet, fishing with his good friends at Lake Shelbyville and traveling with family every chance he could get. A memorial service will be held at First Congregational United Church of Christ of Decatur at 2 PM on May 14, 2015 with a celebration of Russ's life following at 4 PM at Hickory Point Golf Course. Memorial contributions can be made to the Dr. Russell Tiede Memorial Scholarship fund at Millikin University or to the First Congregational United Church of Christ of Decatur. "
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