Russell G. Pillar

Click on the tribute wall above to view Russ' video tribute. Russell “Russ” Gordon Pillar, 79, passed away Sunday, December 15, 2019 at Beaumont Oakwood Hospital in Dearborn, Michigan. Russ was born June 29, 1940 to James and Ida (Knox) Pillar in Detroit, Michigan, the oldest of three children. He graduated from Melvindale High School in 1958. Russ is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Janice Pillar; along with two sons; Scott Pillar (Fiancee Audrey) of Port Charlotte, Florida and Keith and Dawn Pillar of Jerome, Michigan; 5 grandchildren Nicole Pillar, Aaron Pillar, James Pillar, Maeghan Pillar and Madison Pillar; brothers, William and Thomas Pillar. Russ was preceded in death by his parents and oldest son, Kevin Pillar. In 1964, Russ began his lifetime career as a police officer at the Allen Park Police Department eventually attaining the rank of Detective Sergeant. Russ retired in 1993 after 29 years of dedicated service to the citizens of Allen Park. Apart from his career in law enforcement, Russ enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren whenever he could. He loved to go deer hunting, fishing, golfing, playing cards at the SWAC Club and traveling to Florida to visit family and friends during the winter months.