Russell Aaron Scott

Russell Aaron Scott, known to many as Russ, 93, of Harbor Springs, MI, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 26, 2026, at home. He had a valiant and courageous struggle with his illness.
He was born on October 11, 1932, in Bruce, WI, to the late Laura Ellen Nelson Scott and Everett Scott. He joined the US Navy in 1951 and served his country honorably during the Korean Conflict. 

After his time in the Navy, he went on to begin a successful career in the financial industry with Merrill Lynch in Milwaukee, WI. During that time, Russ met Sharon, and they were married in 1961. They started a family and built a life centered around faith, friends, and family. They continued this by influencing their children and grandchildren about the importance of staying connected and visiting loved ones.

His career took him from NY to CA with various financial companies and finally to MI, where he became a financial adviser, branch manager, and partner with Raymond James; there he spent the last 22 years of his career. He was proud of the work he did, successfully winning many sales awards, was dedicated, and was a great mentor and made many lasting friendships.
His love of farm life took Russ and Sharon to Harbor Springs, MI, in 1997, where he lived out his retirement years. The vintage house, century-old barn, and surrounding acreage became his absolute pride and joy. He found so much pleasure in gardening during the summer.

He was an avid sailor, had a love for classic sport cars, and traveling. During the winter months, he enjoyed skating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. One of his greatest achievements was winning the Loppet race (16 miles) in Harbor Springs at age 80!

Russ had strong moral principles; he had a gentle soul; he will be remembered as a patient, kind, classy, and determined character for the way he lived his life.

He is survived by his wife, Sharon Lorena Perau Scott, Harbor Springs; his three children, Seth (Yvonne), Harrisburg, OR, Johnelle, Shawn, Terra; Saul (Joan), Brighton, MI, Adam, Charlie; and Sarah (Tom), Cross Village, MI, Cortni, Caelan, Ian; brother, Carl (Fredricka); and several cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Everett Scott and Laura Ellen Nelson Scott, and his brothers Hugh, Fran, John, and Vilas.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, July 9th at the Cross of Christ Lutheran Church (1450 E Mitchell Rd. Petoskey, Mi 49770), beginning at 11am with services celebrating Russ’ life at 12:00pm (Noon). A luncheon will immediately follow the service at the church.  Burial will take place at the Friendship Township Cemetery in Harbor Springs, MI
Those wishing to honor Russ’ memory are asked to make a donation to the American Cancer Society.

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