Russell Rand

Russell Wayne Rand, 90, Candler, North Carolina passed away February 5, 2011 in Asheville, North Carolina. Russell was born September 15, 1920 in Jasper, Missouri to the late Clarence L. and Helen Marie (Williams) Rand. He graduated Jasper High School in 1937. Following graduation he attended Drury College in Springfield, MO for one year before transferring to the University of MO at Columbia, where he graduated in 1942 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He was awarded membership in Tau Beta Pi and Pi Tau Sigma. Upon graduation, he was employed by Caterpillar Tractor Co. of Peoria, Illinois. He married Jean A. Konantz, June 8, 1942 in Lamar, MO. They resided in Peoria, and Decatur, IL until his induction into the Navy in May of 1944 and discharged in 1946. He then returned to Peoria where he was employed in the Research Dept. of Diesel Engine Development. He retired after 35 years from Caterpillar on Feb. 1, 1977 to care for his ailing wife, Jean, who preceded him in death in 1978. On April 10, 1980 he married Gwendolyn Streeter Konantz at the Maiden's Chapel Methodist Church near Franklin, NC. Survivors include his wife, Gwen, of Candler, NC and her children, Ronnie Konantz and wife, Sue of Houston, Texas; Susan Konantz Latta of Candler, NC, Michelle Selinsohn and husband, Howard of Clayton, NC and Martha Konantz of Leesburg, Fla.; grandchildren Pam, Lesley, Judy, Angie, Lisa, Tracy, Kim and Dena; great grandchildren Bryson Sydney, Jose' IV, Bailee, Kylie, Kensie, Luke and Lily; several cousins, nieces and nephews. Russell was preceded in death by one granddaughter, Terri in 1987.