Thomas Krell, Ii

Thomas Henry "Rusty" Krell, II, age 67 of Youngstown, passed away on Tuesday May 10, 2016 after a lengthy illness. Rusty was born March 31, 1949 in Niagara Falls, NY, to Thomas and Norma (Wagner) Krell. He was employed for nearly 20 years by the Village of Lewiston DPW and then later became instrumental in the upkeep of the building and grounds of the Red Brick School. He was also previously a zookeeper at the former Oppenheim Zoo. Rusty was proud to have served our country as a member of the United States Navy and voluntarily joined the service to aid in the Vietnam War effort. He remained proud throughout his lifetime of his military tenure. Rusty enjoyed fishing, gardening, cooking, and upkeep of his family's farm. He is survived by his wife, Elaine Similly-Krell of Youngstown; two children, Jamie (Dustin) Merrigan of Anchorage, Alaska and Melanie Krell of Pendleton; five grandchildren, and his siblings, Sandra (Charles) Frantz, Tracie (Scott) Ullery, and William Krell. He was predeceased by his sister, Nancy (Dave) Stanley. An informal gathering to celebrate Rusty's life will be held at 1166 Swann Rd. Youngstown on Friday, May 20, from 3 to 7 pm. In lieu of flowers please make memorials to the Youngstown VFW Lake Ontario Post # 313, 434 Third St., Youngstown, NY 14174. Arrangements have been entrusted to HARDISON FUNERAL HOME, 3648 Ransomville Road, Ransomville.