Russell “Tick” Pankey, 79, of Loogootee

Russell “Tick” Pankey, 79, of Loogootee, Indiana passed away at 3:15 p.m. Wednesday, June 28, 2023 at Poplar Care Strategies. 

He was born July 14, 1943 in Linton, Indiana to the late Russell W. and Virginia Rose (Haffley) Pankey. 

Tick retired from GTE/Verizon after 30 years of employment. He then went to work for CAAA as an explosive handler. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge. He enjoyed fishing and camping. Tick also liked to ride his motorcycle and golf cart. He loved to spend time with his family and friends. 

He was preceded in death by a son, John Russell Pankey; granddaughter, Briana Varela; parents, Russell W. and Virginia Pankey; siblings, Patrick L. Pankey, Luanna Kay Pankey, Sherry Pankey Vogler and James Pankey; stepdaughter, Debby Bowers; niece, Mandy White.

Tick is survived by his daughter, Kimberly Varela; stepdaughter, Karen (Joe) Sherfick; grandchildren, Michael Pankey, Daniel Varela, Abbie Sherfick, AJ Sherfick, Carissa King, Derrick Pendley and Dustin Pendley; great-grandchildren, Tyler Varela and Bailee Irwin; sister-in-law, Waynette Pankey and Diane Pankey; nephews, Jim Pankey and Michael Pankey and many additional nieces, nephews, and great nieces and great nephews. 

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, July 5th, 2023 at the Loogootee Christian Church in Loogootee, Indiana. 

Visitation will be held Wednesday, July 5th, 2023 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church.