Russell Boyd Goeglein

Russell Boyd Goeglein, age 86, of Yuma, Colorado, passed away on January 24th, 2025, surrounded by his family at his childhood home.

Born on October 24, 1938, in Denver, Colorado, Russell was the son of Alfred and Verda (Yost) Goeglein.  He was baptized in his family's home on November 25, 1938.  Russell had one sibling, a younger sister, Marilynn.

 In 1944, the Goeglein family purchased a farm located three miles south and one mile west of Yuma. Here they raised small grain and cattle—a reflection of hard work and simplicity that would shape Russell’s character. On March 29, 1953, he was confirmed at St. John’s Lutheran Church.  Russell attended St. John’s Lutheran School until the eighth grade before completing high school at Yuma Union High School in 1957. Following graduation, he broadened his horizons by enrolling at Colorado State University where he dedicated two years to studying Agricultural Science.

Russell and Shirley Pletcher's love story began in a rather delightful way—on a blind date that brought them together under the bright lights of a Yuma High School football game.  What started as a simple outing blossomed into something deeper, leading to their engagement. However, life had other plans; in 1961, Russell received his draft notice for the United States Army. This turn of events took him away from home and landed him in Pacific, Missouri, where he was stationed at the Nike-Hercules Missile base.  There, Russell took on responsibilities as a Unit Supply Specialist, ensuring that his fellow soldiers were equipped and ready.

On September 9, 1962, Russell and Shirley tied the knot in a small ceremony in Missouri. They lived there together for fourteen months, until Russell received his Honorable Discharge from the military in 1963.  The couple made their way back to Yuma, but this journey was tinged with an unforgettable historical event; they traveled home on November 22, 1963—the very day President Kennedy was assassinated.

Upon their return to Yuma, Russell found himself in the familiar rhythm of farm life, working for his cousin Kenneth Goeglein on his farm. It was a joyous time for Russell and Shirley as they welcomed two daughters into their lives, first, Brenda Kay and next, Connie Ann, who brought great happiness to their family. As Russell’s father introduced irrigation into their farming operation, Russell naturally took on more responsibilities at the family farm. He worked side by side with Alfred until 1976 when his father retired, passing the torch to Russell. With that transition he moved his family into the farmhouse and began his role as the primary caretaker of the farm.

Russell was one of Yuma County's last flood irrigators. His mechanical skills were second to none; he had an exceptional talent for maintaining all of his farming equipment in tip top shape. In fact, Russell could identify issues with his Minneapolis Moline irrigation motors simply by listening closely—a true testament to his knowledge and experience. Outside of farming, he enjoyed spending quality time with his grandsons as they restored two antique tractors together.   Additionally, Russell possessed a remarkable knack for water witching; friends and neighbors frequently sought him out for assistance in locating water sources.

Russell dedicated several years to serving on the Equity Coop board in Yuma, where he and Shirley embarked on various trips alongside his fellow board members.  Russell created joyful memories with his daughters and grandchildren during their family vacations to Disney World. One of the highlights of Russell’s life was celebrating his golden wedding anniversary with Shirley; they marked this significant milestone with a family cruise through the Caribbean. In December 2015, the family set off for yet another getaway, this time to the country of Belize. Russell often reminisced about this particular trip, referring to it as his absolute favorite.

Russell was a simple man known for his kindness and gentle spirit. He was a humble man that dedicated himself to his family and farm. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.   He instilled values of love for family, hard work, and the satisfaction of a well-lived life. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love and kindness will continue to flourish in the hearts of all who knew him. 

Well done thou good and faithful servant.

Preceding Russell in death were his parents, Alfred and Verda Goeglein; his mother and father-n-law, George and Florence Pletcher; and brothers-in-law, Phillip Hansen and Harold Pletcher.

He leaves to mourn his wife of sixty-two years, Shirley Goeglein; sister Marilynn Hansen; daughters Brenda Riley and husband Rick, Connie Richardson and husband Ruben; grandchildren Amanda Monk and husband Clint, Justin Riley and wife Victoria, Ethan Franson, Drew Franson, Riley Richardson, Ema Richardson, Lea Richardson and Nash Richardson; Great-grandchildren, Kennadee Monk, Beau Monk, Crue Monk, Autumn Riley, and Scarlett Riley, and nieces and nephews.

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