Russell was born September 16, 1946, to parents of Finnish descent, Eddie H. and Stella (Anderson) Geranen of Frederick, SD. He was proud of his Finnish heritage, but always happy to tell or hear jokes at his expense.

He was proud of his education he received attending a one-room school house through 8th grade in rural Frederick, SD. He developed a life-long love of track and field at Frederick High School and graduated in 1964. After graduation, he moved to the San Francisco area to attend the College of San Mateo and begin his 50 year career in carpentry.

While there, he met Ronna Brynjolffson and they married in 1966. After Ronna's death in 1969, he returned to South Dakota. He met Cynthia M. Podoll. They married in 1970 in Minnesota. Together they had 2 children, Brett R. and Chandra M. Geranen.

Upon his return to the Frederick area in 1974, he co-owned a lumber yard with his father-in-law, brother, and cousin. In 1984, Russell, Cynthia, and family moved to Rapid City where they enjoyed many years in the construction industry. While Russell appreciated being asked to build and renovate homes, he particularly relished building relationships with the people he worked with and for and developed many lifelong friendships during these years.

Russell adored his house and yard, doting especially upon his numerous rose bushes. He enjoyed track events, horseback riding or anything to do with horses, being outside working on his family home, and spending time with all generations of his family and many close friends.

Russell Dean Geranen, 70, passed away Saturday, October 8, 2016.

He leaves behind his wife of 46 years, Cynthia of Rapid City, SD; son, Brett (Joan Welles) Geranen of Washington, DC; daughter, Chandra Geranen of Rapid City, SD to mourn his passing and to celebrate his life. He is also survived by his sister, Joan (Manual) Saroff; brothers, Dayton (Connie) Geranen, James Geranen and Dennis Geranen; brother-in-law, Herb Brynjolffson; sisters-in-law, Toni (Mike) McCormick and Lois Podoll; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Russell was preceded in death by his parents, Eddie and Stella; wife, Ronna; sisters-in-law, Darlene and Karen; and a nephew.

Cremation has taken place. An open house will be held at the Geranen home (3005 Chapel Lane, Rapid City) Saturday, October 15, 2016, from Noon to 4:00 PM. A memorial service will be held at a later date in Aberdeen, SD.