Henry Russell Gluth, 60 of Valparaiso, IN, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, June 11, 2024. He was born April 21, 1964, in Hammond, to Henry Richard Gluth and Joyce Ann (Mikuly) Gluth. Russ graduated from Munster High School and Ball State University, double majoring in natural resources and aquatics. He was a proud member of Sigma Phi Epsilon. He went on to a career as a part-owner and roofing contractor with Gluth Brothers Roofing Company, Inc. Russ participated in 4-H as the Porter County Poultry Superintendent, served on the Board of Directors with the Porter County Agricultural Society, was a member of the NWI Roofing Contractors Association, and was a former Boy Scout leader for many years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and boating in his spare time. You could often find Russ working on his property and tinkering on things around the house. His favorite pastime, though, was spending time with his beloved wife, sons, and grandchildren. Russ put his family above all else, and was a loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He will be remembered for his generous heart, selfless nature, and outgoing persona. Russ was larger than life, with a personality to match. His legacy will live on in his family, and in the many lives he touched while he was here. Russ will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered every day.
On April 23, 1988, in South Bend, IN, Russ married the love of his life, and best friend, Tracy Forrester, who survives, along with their sons, Tyler (Kristina) Gluth of Chesterton, IN and Harrison (Cassidy) Gluth of Waterford, MI; grandchildren, Brooks, Hudson, and Eli Gluth; mother, Joyce Gluth; and siblings: Brian (Mary) Gluth, Erin Gluth, Eric (Jennifer) Gluth, Randall (Julie) Gluth. He was preceded in death by his father, Henry Richard Gluth.
Visitation will be held on Friday, June 28, 2024, at the Porter County Expo Center (215 E. Division Rd., Valparaiso, IN 46383) from 3 PM to 7 PM. On Saturday, June 29, 2024, a funeral mass will be held at St. Matthias Catholic Church (101 W. Burrell Dr., Crown Point, IN 46307) at 10 AM. Following mass, a celebration of Russell’s life will be held at Duffy’s Place (1154 Axe Ave., Valparaiso, IN 46383) from 1 PM to 4 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Porter County 4-H Poultry Project at 105 Lincolnway, Valparaiso, IN 46383.
GUESTBOOK
I don't even know where to begin. Troy & I am truly heartbroken over his passing. He was such a wonderful human being, a fun-loving person to be around. Always entertaining us w/ his great stories to make us all laugh. What a great loss to the world. We love you, Russ. Our lives will always be empty without you here. You will be forever missed and always remembered in our hearts. Our sincerest sympathy to the Gluth family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all in this time of grieving. - Troy & Andrea Reader
Mr. Gluth was a great man, with a great sense of humor and had a phenomenal story-telling ability! I feel it was my honor to know him and be mentored by him through Scouting. He was a very kind, patient, and generous person that gave so much of his time to running the troop. I have fond memories of campouts and all the crazy fun we had organizing our trips and he made sure there was always plenty of food. I’m beyond grateful that his leadership and commitment allowed me to reach Eagle Scout, just before my 18th birthday. Beyond Scouts, I know he was dedicated to his family and the poultry division of 4-H. He will be sorely missed by so many whose lives he touched. Condolences to his family and friends during this challenging time. - Erik Schultz and Family
Tracy, Harrison, Tyler & family, I am so saddened to hear of the loss of Russ who looms larger than life in my memories of Washington Township. I remember Russ watching as Tracy & I struggled to wrangle 3rd & 4th grade boys when soccer first became a sport at WT. I’m sure he thought we were a little crazy at the time. But we laughed a lot as we muddled our way thru, Russ chuckling at our efforts. Much love to Tyler & Harrison whom I loved working with and were part of the early days of soccer. Much love, Beth Garwood
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. - Andy Tancos
Dear Gluth Family, Russell was always such a spokesman for the family, associations involved, and able to keep a conversation with anyone about a plethora of topics. He was loved by all of us and will always have a special spot in our hearts. His love for his family shinned above all other things. Our prayers continue for the Gluth Family! - Tom Averitt
I couldn’t have chosen a better man for my sister to marry, or dad for my nephews. How lucky we all were to have known him. He was very special and will continue to live on in our hearts and memories. We love you Russell!!! - Tammi Yoder
I will always remember Russ’s kind heart and caring nature. Tracy, I’m so sorry for the loss of your best friend, soul mate and love of your life. I will always and forever remember Russ’s contagious smile. May his smile carry on through you, Tyler, Harrison, your grandchildren, and all future generations. Russ was truly “The Salt of the Earth” and will be sorely missed by so many. Sending my love, hugs, and prayers for peace and comfort for all of the Gluth family. May Russ Rest In Eternal Peace. -Rosalinda Ford
I had only known Russell for the past few years but he left an impression that will last my lifetime. I loved the way he would tell a story, his enthusiasm was the same he shared for life. I will miss his wisdom, and his smile. I keep each of you in my thoughts. -Karl Imboden
We met Mr Gluth three years ago when my daughter joined 4-H and the poultry project. We immediately felt welcomed, included and supported. He has helped us immensely with his knowledge and insights as we’ve expanded from 7 chickens to now have turkeys, quail and ducks. He was always so cheerful, helpful and reassuring at fair, providing my daughter with courage and support in showing her poultry. He made a strong impact on my daughter’s 4H experience. We treasure that we were able to learn from him and know him. My heart goes out to his family. -Jessica Swearingen and Izzy Lawley
My deepest condolences and sorrow for your loss. -Charles Matheny
Leader Of Scouts by Mark Gregory - "Leader of scouts, by lake and glen, You taught us to be kind to men. Nature’s beauty, you helped us see, In every flower, leaf, and tree.
In fields we roamed, by rivers clear, With every season, you drew us near. The mountains grand, the valleys low, Scouting helped us learn and grow.
Your gentle spirit, calm and wise, Beneath the open, endless skies, Inspired us all to ‘be prepared’ To ‘do our best’ and always care.
Though now you’ve gone, your presence stays, In each sunrise’s golden blaze. In every rustling, whispering breeze, In every forest’s ancient trees.
For in your love of nature’s grace, You have left an indelible trace. A legacy of wonder, free, In every Scout, you’ll always be." Thanks for being my scoutmaster Mr. Gluth - Thomas Eggleston
