Russell James Lundgren
August 18, 1933 – October 5, 2025
Russell James Lundgren was born on August 18, 1933, in Great Falls, Montana, to Frieda and Carl Lundgren. He grew up in Pocatello, Idaho, where his father owned and ran a small ice cream shop that became a local favorite and a gathering place for the community.
Russ had a competitive spirit and a sharp mind. While attending Idaho State University, he boxed at the collegiate level, placing third in the NCAA Championships in 1952 and winning the Sugar Bowl Tournament in 1954. He later earned his master’s degree in mathematics from the University of Montana in Missoula, a reflection of his deep love for learning and problem-solving.
Books were his constant companions. Russ was endlessly curious, always reading, exploring new ideas, and surrounding himself with stories, history, and knowledge. His mind was quick, but his heart was steady – thoughtful, kind, and full of humor.
He married in 1955 and is survived by three children from that marriage: David, Cynthia, and Paul. From his second marriage, he is survived by two children, Kristin and Michael.
Russell Lundgren moved to the Northern Cheyenne Reservation in 1978, where he became a guiding force in the lives of Northern Cheyenne youth. Through his dedication to teaching the fundamentals of boxing, he helped shape champions – many of whom went on to earn State and Regional titles under his coaching.
Beyond the ring, Russ served as a respected Math Instructor at Dull Knife College for many years, making his home among the Cheyenne people. His commitment to education and mentorship left a lasting impact on generations.
A devoted member of the Circle of Life Lutheran Church, Russ lived his faith quietly and consistently throughout his life on the Reservation. At the time of his passing, he resided in Ashland, Montana. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered for his strength, humility, and unwavering respect for the community he served.
Russ will be remembered for his intelligence, his quiet strength, and the warmth he shared with those who knew him. He lived a full life – curious, engaged, and always ready with a good book or a good story.
A memorial service honoring Russell Lundgren will be held at the Circle of Life Lutheran Church in Muddy Cluster, Montana, on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. All who knew and loved Russ are welcome to gather in remembrance of his life, legacy, and the deep impact he made within the Northern Cheyenne community.
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
11:00 am
Sunday October 12, 2025
Circle of Life Lutheran Church
Muddy Cluster, Montana 59043
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
11:00 am
Sunday October 12, 2025
Circle of Life Lutheran Church
Muddy Cluster, Montana 59043
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Bertha Brown says
Russ was my Mathetics Instructor at CDKC! He was the best and Gloden Gloves Boxing Champion. Instructor Lundgren you will be missed. Journey to the Next Camp!
Andrita Harris says
Deepest sympathy and condolences to your family. I am former student at CDKC. College Algebra I told him as along I get a C out of this class. The class went on 2 field trips; Didn’t go I had a halo on, walking boot, & crutches. I basically forgot. PRAYERS to your family. I did extra credit, Last day of finals. Russ said well you got a B out of the class. Was a great instructor.
Diana R McLean says
Russ was the only and best statistics instructor I had during my 1 quarter stint CDKC
Cheryl N Merlin Limpy Family says
So sorry to hear about Russ he was a good guy to know was always good to see him in church n very faithful in his attendance always greeting everyone n making u feel at home , i know Russ is dancing on them streets of gold journey well Russ , Prayers n Condolences to his Children 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
Garth Sleight says
I remember Russ from when he did some teaching at Miles Community College back in the early 90s. I really liked him. I am happy to see that he lived to such a ripe old age because he worried that in spite of his rigorous exercise regimen, he would die at a fairly young age because he came from a family that had a history of heart failure at a comparatively young age. Russ was a terrific fellow. I enjoyed our conversations together. My condolences to his family and close friends. Cherish the memories.
Sue Parker says
Russ was one of the people who gave some steel to the teaching staff at DKMC and had a good deal of influence. Always calm
and reasonable, he was a consummate professional. RIP Russ.