OBITUARY: Russell Wahl

Russell “Russ” Wahl, 64, passed away on June 27, 2025, in Lebanon, Tennessee.

Born on November 28, 1960, in Omaha, Nebraska, Russ lived a life marked by service, devotion, and an unwavering commitment to those around him. A proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps, Russ served his country with honor for eight years and was discharged with the rank of Sergeant. His military service was one of his greatest sources of pride-something he never hesitated to share with others. If you met Russ, it wouldn’t take long before you knew about his time in the Marines. That chapter of his life shaped much of who he was: disciplined, loyal, and fiercely dedicated.

Following his military service, Russ continued to serve in another vital capacity-as a Security Officer for federal buildings as well as for his church. He approached these roles with the same seriousness and integrity that defined his time in uniform. Protecting others wasn’t just a job for Russ; it was a calling.

At home and among friends, Russ was known as the consummate handyman. Whether it was fixing a car or building a porch deck from scratch, he was always the first person people called when something needed doing-and he never hesitated to lend a hand. His stubborn streak was legendary, but so too was his generosity. He’d give you the shirt off his back if he thought you needed it more than he did.

Russ shared a deep faith in Christ with his wife Laura Wahl. Their church community held a special place in his heart and provided him with strength and fellowship throughout his life.

He is survived by his beloved wife Laura Wahl; daughter Emalee Wahl; mother Sharon Wahl; brother and sister-in-law Jim and Diane Wahl; step-children Michael Dempsey, Sharlene Grogan, and Steven Dempsey; and grand-daughters Linnea Dempsey-Sutton and Lilah Grogan. Russ was preceded in death by his father Eugene Wahl.

Graveside Service is 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 2, 2025 at Nashville National Cemetery. The Celebration of Life is also on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, from 6-8 p.m., at The Rising Church (3143 McGavock Pike, Nashville TN). In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to the following Marine charities: Marine Corps League Foundation and/or Semper Fi & America’s Fund.