M. Russell Slater, 81, of Butler, passed away Saturday, May 17, 2025, at his residence.

Born January 2, 1944, in Parker, he was a son of the late James R. Slater, Sr. and Frances Bowser Slater.

Russell was a steelworker at ARMCO. He also worked as a driver for Advance Auto Parts.

He was a member of St. John's Reformed Church.

He belonged to the Bucco Camping Club, the Loyal Order of the Moose, and the North Washington Volunteer Fire Department.

Russell loved activities with his grandsons and camping.

He is survived by two daughters, Karen Slater, of Butler, and Debra Stanfield and her husband, Eric, of Maryland; two grandsons, Matthew Slater, of Butler, and Zachary Stanfield, of Maryland; numerous nieces and nephews; and his faithful dog and companion, "Rusty".

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 56 years, Loretta Gerner Slater, whom he married July 24, 1964, and who passed away Nov. 12, 2020; one sister, Colleen Benson; and one brother, James R. Slater, Jr.

Friends will be received on Monday, May 19, from 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. at the Martin Funeral Home, Downtown, 201 E. Cunningham St., Butler.

Visitation will also take place on Tuesday, May 20, from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. at St. John's Reformed Church, 493 Evans City Rd., Butler.

The funeral service will immediately follow at 11 a.m. at the church, with Rev. Dennis Barger and Rev. Jarrod Crawford officiating.

Burial will be in Bear Creek Cemetery, Petrolia.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to St. John's Reformed Church, 493 Evans City Rd., Butler, PA 16001, or Connoquenessing Area Meals on Wheels, 102 Shannon Rd., Renfrew, PA 16053.