Russell Clarence Knudson, 79, passed away in the company of his family on Sunday, April 14, 2013, at his home in Lexington, Virginia.

He was born on February 27, 1934 in Joliet, Illinois, to Clarence Joseph and Iva Heap Knudson.

Russ grew up in Minooka, Ill. After graduating from high school, he attended Illinois State University, earning a degree in Music Education. It was there he met and married Carolyn Moody. He then joined the United States Army and served for three years in the 5th Army Band, stationed in Fort Sheridan, Illinois.

After completing his military service, he taught music at Armstrong Township High School in Armstrong, Illinois. He later attended the University of Wisconsin and the University of Illinois for graduate work in French studies.

Russ taught French in the Romance Language Department at Washington & Lee University for 33 years. After retiring from the classroom, he worked with the Undergraduate Admissions Office for 12 years, interviewing prospective students and giving information sessions about the University.

Russell was a member of R. E. Lee Memorial Episcopal Church in Lexington. He played cello in the Rockbridge Area Community Orchestra for a number of years. He also enjoyed listening to opera and was an avid knitter.

Russell was preceded in death by his parents and oldest daughter, Kirsten Louise.

Russell is survived by his wife of over 55 years, Carolyn Moody Knudson; his children Jeffrey Russell Knudson and Christine Knudson Wood; and his grandchildren, Katie Knudson, Cody and Darby Farrish and Cameron Wood.

A memorial service will be held at R. E. Lee Memorial Episcopal Church in Lexington at 11 a.m. Friday, April 19, 2013. The family will be greeting friends and relatives following the service in the Parish Hall. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to be made to Rockbridge Area Hospice or R. E. Lee Memorial Episcopal Church.

Arrangements are being handled by Harrison Funeral Home & Crematory, Lexington.