Norman Russell Hein, 90, of Wilmington, Delaware passed away peacefully on June 3, 2026.
Russell was born on October 15, 1935 in Rockville Centre, NY. He and Janet, his wife of 65 years, knew each other from childhood and attended Valley Stream Central High School together before Russ enrolled in Emerson College, Boston, MA. After graduation in 1958, Russ joined the service, serving in the army from 1959-1965, both actively and in the reserves. Russ and Jan married in 1960 and started their family in White Plains, NY, before moving to Wilmington, DE, in 1971. There, they opened an auto repair shop, Auto Medic, which operated until 1996. Upon retirement, Russ and Jan sold their home and traveled the country in their motorhome, seeking out unique sights and local gem restaurants.
With a fondness for vintage clocks, Russ enjoyed repair and maintenance, caring for the tower clock in the Old Town Hall in Wilmington. At home, he could be found playing chess and gin rummy, baking bread, and making Sunday morning crêpes for his family. He maintained an exceptional vegetable garden and dabbled in fresh water fishing. Russ and Janet frequented local theaters, enjoying plays, musicals, and especially organ concerts. Most of all, he enjoyed traveling with Janet. In their earlier years together, they loved their sailboat, Fairwinds, and in retirement, they traveled in their motorhome. Together, they visited every state in the continental United States, as well as many Canadian provinces.
Russell was predeceased by his father Joseph Hein and mother Violet (Bang) Hein of Hampton Bays, NY, as well as his brothers Robert W. Hein, and Richard A. Hein. He is survived by his wife Janet Hein, daughters Allyson Hein and Melissa (Hein) Wardius, grandchildren Stephanie Wardius and Bryan Wardius, and sister-in-law Carol Ungro.
Russell will be laid to rest at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Bear, DE. A private graveside service will be held for immediate family. Russ was a supporter of veterans, thus, in lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the Wilmington VA Medical Center, Attn: Volunteer Services, 1601 Kirkwood Highway, Wilmington, DE 19805 or a performing arts theater of your choosing.
For online condolences please visit: mccreryandharra.com
