Russell was a flight medic with Shell for Mercy Air Med. On January 2, 2013, he also boarded the Mercy Air Med N445MT helicopter that went down near Ventura, IA. This was his final mission.

Russ left behind his wife Melody and their six children – Kayla, Jesse, Tricia, Brandon, Courtney, and Cassie.

Thank you for your sacrifice Russell Piehl. God bless you and may you rest in peace.