He later became the EMS Manager for training and education at North Iowa Area Community College. He was also a current member of the Forest City Ambulance Service. In 2007, Russ found his true passion as a Mercy Air Med flight paramedic in Mason City, Iowa. In addition, Russ also served on numerous boards and committees throughout his career, most recently as a board member for the Iowa EMS Association. Russ was an avid Green Bay Packer fanatic and shareholder. He enjoyed spending countless hours on his Harley, boating on the lakes of North central Iowa, golfing and spending time with his wife and children, as well as spoiling grandchildren and being the best "Bumpa" there is. His true passion was his ability to use the gift that God gave him, helping others in times of need and crisis, touching countless lives throughout his career. Russ is survived by his wife, Melody Piehl; and children, Kayla, Jesse, Tricia, Brandon, Courtney and Cassie, grandchildren Kaiden and Zoe. Brothers-Gregg and his wife Vicki Piehl, Doug and his wife Colleen Piehl, Bruce and his wife Betty Piehl. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews and extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents, Burton and Lavonne Piehl, and grandparents Martha and Edward Piehl and Herbert and Ida Oberheau. "The three most important things in life are God, family and the Green Bay Packers in that order"-Vince Lombardi