Obituary of
Kell, Don Russell
Don Russell Kell, of Plano, Texas was born on October 18, 1949 in Weatherford, Texas to the late Claude Kell and Marie (Kell) Mitchell. He died in the loving arms of his family on Thursday, December 1, 2016 at the age of 67.
Don is survived by his wife of 37 years, Marguerite Benenate Kell; his two children, son, Brandon Kell, his wife, Whitney Glover of Anchorage, Alaska, and step-daughter, Chanel Mullican Assi, DO and husband, Ed Assi, DO of El Paso, Texas; five grandchildren, Cole, Blake, Madelyn, Stella and Zoe; sister, Barbara Kell Kapp and husband, David; niece, Jennifer; nephew, Michael and wife, Monica, and their three children Nathan, Ryan and Jacob; three step sisters, Cheryl Frink, Cathy MacGorman, and Christy Wentz; sisters-in-law, Jane Benenate, and Marie Goldis; brothers-in-law, Dr. Joe Benenate, Frank Benenate, David Kapp and Mark Goldis; many nieces and nephews; and many cousins and friends.
Those who knew Don, knew him for his quick wit and many “Don-isms”. He was compassionate, thoughtful, and always put others before himself. He adored his wife, Ms. Maggie, and his family and couldn’t wait for his grandchildren to visit. He had wonderful friends who indeed have been incredible to him as well. Don was proud to be Chief Pilot and Director of Aviation for Jani-King International where he was employed for 20 years. He loved music, playing the guitar and was even known to do a little two-steppin’. Despite a hard battle against brain cancer, Don kept a smile on his face and humor in his heart and never complained. All who knew him will miss him dearly.
There will be a gathering for a celebration of Don’s life at 6:00 pm on January 7, 2017 at the Cavanaugh Flight Museum, Addison Airport, 4572 Claire Chennault Street, Addison, Texas 75001. Boots and denim are optional.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Please leave the family condolences and share memories on this website.
Tribute Wall of Kell, Don Russell
Don was a good man and I am proud to have known him. He always had a kind word or a funny story. God Bless You Don.
Harold Dixon
Thursday October 13, 2022
Don was a good man and I am proud to have known him. He always had a kind word or a funny story. God Bless You Don.
As a former aircraft mechanic for the museum, I remember Don always being as nice to us as he was anyone else. Always funny and laid back. He loved his music and was proud of Texas. He gave us all a Christmas CD one year entitled Kell’s Bell’s along with his traditional ham. I will always remember Don.
Steve Sheridan
Thursday October 13, 2022
As a former aircraft mechanic for the museum, I remember Don always being as nice to us as he was anyone else. Always funny and laid back. He loved his music and was proud of Texas. He gave us all a Christmas CD one year entitled Kell's Bell's along with his traditional ham. I will always remember Don.