John (Jack) Ernest Russ III, 78, of Poway California passed away unexpectedly yet peacefully at home on Friday May 24.

Jack was born January 7, 1946 in Washington DC.  He and his three older sisters were raised by their mother Lydia.  Jack graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1968 and served tours of duty as a Naval Flight Officer in F-4 Phantom Fighters and aboard the USS HOEL (DDG-13) during the Vietnam War.  He retired from the Navy Reserve in 1990.

As a mechanical engineer and economist, Jack's civilian career encompassed a multitude of public and private sector positions to include energy supply planning, economic analysis and technical expertise to the energy extraction, transport and consumption industry.  Concurrently he served as an Adjunct Professor of Economics and Statistics at San Diego State University for over 30 years.  Most recently he served on the San Diego redistricting commission.

Jack's spiritual perspective guided his life and enriched his relationships with people.  While maintaining a solid grounding in science and reason, he embraced the spiritual.  Always a deep thinker, he enjoyed problem solving and did not shy away from questions involving controversy or paradox.  His intellect, sense of humor, thoughtfulness and firm belief in God's love and provision allowed him to enjoy an abundant and joyful life.

Jack enjoyed sailing and working around his Poway home he shared with his wife of 53 years. His most favorite times were with his family -- especially, his grandchildren.  He is survived by his wife (Adell), three sons (Nate, Jon and Andrew) , their wives (Elsie, Kate and Jessica), and six grandchildren (Emilia, Jayce, Olivia, Elizabeth, Josephine, and Mitchell).

A funeral with military honors for immediate family will be conducted at Miramar National Cemetery on Friday, June 7.  A celebration of life will be held at 1:00 pm on Friday, June 28 at Emmanuel Faith Community Church, 639 E 17th Ave, Escondido, CA 92025.