Russell J. Wells, Sr., proud retired US Marine Corps Corporal, died Friday, November 11, 2011 at Nanticoke Memorial Hospital in Seaford. He was born March 5, 1947 in Salisbury, a son of the late Russell and Nora (Campbell) Wells. Mr. Wells served in the USMC during the Vietnam War and was a proud recipient of the Purple Heart medal for his injuries during his service to our country. He was a member of the American Legion Post 19 in Laurel, the VFW Post 8276 in Delmar and the Military Order of the Purple Heart in Millsboro. He was employed in the heating and air conditioning field for many years and was known as the "dumpling man" at the Railroad Café in Delmar, where he helped his wife do the cooking. He was an avid fisherman who fished often for the enjoyment of spending time with family and friends. Competing in BASS tournaments was his true passion. He is survived by his beloved wife, Linda; a son, Russell J Wells, Jr. and his wife, Erika; a brother, Thomas Wells; and 3 sisters, Gladys Simons and her husband, George, Darlene Kohlhoff and her husband, Edward and Ida Robbins and her husband, Bruce. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Myrtle March, who passed in 2000. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, November 15, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. at Short Funeral Home in Delmar, where family and friends may call from 10:00 to 11:00. The Reverend Sam McWilliams will officiate. Interment will follow at Odd Fellows Cemetery in Laurel. Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to the Military Order of the Purple Heart Club, 28365 Clark Avenue, Millsboro, DE 19966. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.shortfh.com.