Russell S. "Joe" Alderson, 84, of Mexico, died at 1:07 a.m. today, June 16, 2005, at Audrain Medical Center in Mexico. Graveside services will be held on Saturday, June 18, 2005, at 2 p.m. at East Lawn Memorial Park in Mexico with the Rev. Larry Baitinger officiating. Visitation will be Friday from 6 until 8 p.m. at Pickering Funeral Home. Mr. Alderson was born on Dec. 21, 1920, in Mexico, a son of Walter and Beulah Hicks Alderson. On Sept. 20, 1941, in St. Charles, he married Anna Marie Pace, who survives at the home. He had worked as a Fork Lift Operator for A. P. Green Co. for 42 years before he retired in January 1983. He enjoyed gardening and yard work, and loved reading the Bible. In addition to his wife, survivors include a daughter, Evelyn Pearl Nachreiner and husband Mark, Mexico; and one grandson, Matthew; and several nieces and nephews. Four sisters and one brother preceded him in death. The family suggests memorial contributions be given to the American Heart Association. They may be sent in care of Pickering Funeral Home, 403 N. Western, Mexico, MO 65265.