Earl Russell “Russ” Ghiglia, 86, passed away on Jan. 28, 2023 peacefully in his home in Silverton, Oregon surrounded by family.
He was born on July 11, 1936, to John and Viola Ghiglia in Glendale, California, the youngest of two. Russ was raised in the San Fernando Valley, California area. He graduated from San Fernando High School in 1955, where he excelled at football.
Upon graduation Russ served in the Army National Guard. He married Margaret Rose Gwaltney on Feb. 2, 1957 in Silverton. They had a son, John, and a daughter, Carolyn. Russ built a family construction business starting in 1972, which continues today as a third generation family business.
Russ loved spending time with his family and dog, General. He was a great outdoorsman, enjoying hunting, fishing and camping.
Russ was preceded in death by his son, John. He is survived by wife, Margaret of Silverton; daughter, Carolyn Tjaarda of Silverton; son-in-law, Tom Tjaarda of Silverton; daughter-in-law, Alice Ghiglia; grandsons: Josh and significant other, Darcy, of Marquam; Andrew and his wife, Devon, of Mount Angel; Adam and wife, Kasondra, of Aumsville; Grant and his wife, Alicia, of Silverton; great grandchildren: Haili, Trevor, Kiersten, Emily, Brook, Blake, Riley, Brody, Spencer, Carter; and an extended loving family.
Memorial services were held Feb. 4 at First Baptist Church in Silverton. Donations can be accepted in his honor at the Oregon Hunters Association or First Baptist Church of Silverton. Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel in Silverton.
