Detroit, Michigan, October 9, 2025
News Summary
Detroit residents are honoring Raymond Anthony Russell and Victoria Kate Westman, two individuals who significantly impacted their communities. Russell, a veteran and dedicated family man, passed away at 92, while Westman, known for her commitment to combating food insecurity, died at 36. Their legacies of love and service will be celebrated in upcoming memorials, highlighting the importance of their contributions to the city.
Detroit, Michigan Remembers Two Lives of Service, Love, and Compassion
Detroit residents are coming together to honor the lives of Raymond Anthony Russell and Victoria Kate Westman, two individuals who made significant contributions to their communities, passed away recently. Russell, aged 92, passed on October 3, 2025, while Westman, 36, died shortly before on September 30, 2025.
Raymond Anthony Russell
Raymond Anthony Russell spent his final moments outside, enjoying a beautiful afternoon before he passed away peacefully. Born on October 17, 1932, in Houghton County, Michigan, he moved to Detroit with his family after the closure of local copper mines. Russell served honorably in the U.S. Army during the Korean War from February 25, 1953, to March 25, 1955.
He was the beloved husband of the late Margaret Russell and is survived by his children: Raylene (David), Michael (Holly), Patrice, and Daniel. Additionally, he is survived by his sister-in-law Sharon McKenna Skwiers, 12 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren, alongside many nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.
A Funeral Mass for Russell was held at the Catholic Church of the Holy Family in Novi on October 10, 2025. Family and friends were provided with the option to view a recording of the funeral online. Further condolences can be shared via his full obituary on the O’Brien Sullivan Funeral Home website.
Victoria Kate Westman
Victoria Kate Westman was remembered for her kindness and commitment to community service. She was born on August 1, 1989, in London, Ontario, and grew up in Novi, Michigan. Throughout her life, Westman was noted for bringing light and compassion into those around her. She graduated from Novi High School and earned a graduate degree in English Literature from Grand Valley State University.
Victoria dedicated her life to combating food insecurity, volunteering at local food banks and preparing meals for loved ones. She believed in the power of nourishment as a form of love and solidarity. She is survived by her parents, Charles and Paula Westman, her sister Jessica Westman, and her grandparents, Veronica and Leslie Kevan. She was predeceased by her paternal grandparents.
A celebration of Victoria’s life will be held on October 11, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Harry J. Will Funeral Home in Livonia, Michigan. Eulogies will be delivered by her sister and lifelong friend at 3:00 p.m., and open memory sharing is encouraged. Guests are invited to bring a letter of love or memory to display alongside her photos. A wake will follow the celebration at Gatsby’s in Novi at 6:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to Gleaners Community Food Bank of Detroit.
Both individuals are being remembered for their genuine compassion, dedication to service, and the profound impact they had on their families and communities.
FAQ
What is the date of Raymond Anthony Russell’s passing?
Raymond Anthony Russell passed away on October 3, 2025.
Where and when was Raymond Anthony Russell’s funeral held?
A Funeral Mass for Raymond Anthony Russell was held at the Catholic Church of the Holy Family in Novi on October 10, 2025.
What did Victoria Kate Westman dedicate her life to?
Victoria Kate Westman dedicated her life to combating food insecurity.
When will the celebration of Victoria Kate Westman’s life take place?
A celebration of Victoria’s life will be held on October 11, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Raymond Anthony Russell | Victoria Kate Westman |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 92 | 36 |
| Date of Passing | October 3, 2025 | September 30, 2025 |
| Place of Birth | Houghton County, Michigan | London, Ontario |
| Service | U.S. Army, Korean War | N/A |
| Community Engagement | N/A | Volunteered at food banks |
| Family | Children, grand & great-grandchildren | Parents, sister, grandparents |
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Additional Resources
- Legacy: Raymond Anthony Russell Obituary
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Dignity Memorial: Victoria Kate Westman Obituary
- Google Search: Detroit Obituaries
- MLive: Madison Davis Obituary
Author: STAFF HERE NOVI WRITER
The NOVI STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENovi.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Novi, Oakland County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Motor City Comic Con, Michigan State Fair, and Novi Home and Garden Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Novi Chamber of Commerce and Novi Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in automotive, technology, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Gentherm, Stoneridge, and Daifuku North America. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
