Russell Thomas DeIp, 76, Brookston, died Saturday, Aug. 5, in Home Hospital, Lafayette, where he had been a patient for one day. He had been in failing health for several months.

He was born March 7,1919, to Orvis and Estella Thomas DeIp. He was married Aug. 11, 1946, to Emma Lou Van Schepen, in Lafayette, and she survives.

He graduated in 1937 from Marshall High School and a graduate from Purdue with a degree in horticulture. He was a lieutenant in the Navy during World War II.

In 1951, he moved from Detroit, Michigan, to Brookston.

He was postmaster at Brookston for 25 years and retired in 1983. Prior to moving to Brookston he was a railroad perishable inspector of fresh fruits and vegetables in Detroit.

He was a member of the Brookston Federated Church, National League of Postmasters and Brookston American Legion Post No. 251. He also was a member and former secretary-treasurer of the Brookston Optimist Club.

Surviving with his wife are two sons, Gary Franklin of Lafayette and Thomas Michael, Brookston; two brothers, Ross of Marshall and Earl, Bloomington; a sister, Mrs Warren (Katherine) Smith, Poway, Calif.; two grandchildren, Robby Jay and Kimberly Robin.

A sister, Barbara Hill and a brother, Keith, are deceased.

The funeral was Tuesday in Hartzler Funeral Home, Brookston, with the Rev. Lelan McReynolds officiating.

Military graveside rites were conducted at Spring Creek Cemetery, northeast of Brookston by Brookston American Legion Post No. 251.

Memorial contributions may be given to the Brookston Federated Church.