Born in 1923, Russell enjoyed a most active life. Douglas
T. Breeden, one of his sons, described him as "mostly
a businessman, but he was always a leader". He went on
to say that, "He was a warm, fuzzy parent. He was a great
loving father and grandfather." On October 21, 1946 Russell married Annabelle Tower, who
survives him today along with their four sons: Russell Breeden
III of Indianapolis, IN, Douglas T. Breeden of Chapel Hill,
NC, John C. Breeden of Leavenworth, IN, and Dwight E. Breeden
of Hinsdale, IL; and daughter, Kathryn Coleman of Leavenworth,
IN; and their thirteen grandchildren. Today Annabelle continues as an officer of the Breeden Family
Foundation, is active at the Overlook Restaurant, and serves
as organist and choir director of the Leavenworth Presbyterian
Church. She has been and is still very active in community
and civic organizations.
Annabelle has always had a tremendous interest in young people and has devoted an enormous amount of energy in community work, school, and church activities involving youth. This love began with her own children when she served as a volunteer with school activities, Brownies, Scouts, and church. Later this interest carried over as she continued those activities with thirteen grandchildren as well as with the other children of her church community. That love and concern is today well memorialized in the Breeden Youth Activity Center.
Russell and Annabelle had a keen interest in libraries as key institutions in their communities. As Directors of the Breeden Family Foundation they were instrumental in supporting the needs of not only their hometown, but other communities as well. The support from this Foundation enabled the Corydon Public Library (now the Harrison County Public Library) to completely furnish their new building as you see it today. Not only did the Foundation fund all of the Library's shelving, but also all of the beautiful furnishings, which make the Library so warm and friendly. The Breeden Youth Activity Center truly captures the spirit of their generous gift. This is most evident as you watch the young children come alive in the very special Center.
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