Russell Bertrand Chorpenning

Russell Bertrand Chorpenning, age 96, of Indianapolis, IN, passed away Monday, February 9, 2026. He was born March 16, 1929, in Auburn, IN, to Richard and Gertrude Chorpenning. He married Janet Kelley Chorpenning on February 18, 1961.

Russ served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War from 1950 to 1954.

Following his military service, he attended Purdue University where he received his electrical engineering degree. In 1959, he began his career working for Indianapolis Power & Light until his retirement in 1991.

A dedicated member of The American Legion, he served in various leadership roles, most notably as Post 300 Commander, 11th District Commander, 11th District Boy Scout committee member, and Hoosier Boy State Chairman.

Russ was a lifelong volunteer in scouting where he served in numerous capacities, including Firecrafter Alumni officer, Cookout on the Circle facilitator, and Learning for Life leader. He also served on staff at three national, one Canadian, and one World Scout Jamboree. In addition, he was honored by the Crossroads of America Council as a Top 100 Scout.

Other memberships include Murat Shrine, Scottish Rite, Forty & Eight, Firecrafter, and Order of the Arrow.

Russ especially enjoyed spending time with his family.

He is survived by his son, Allan (Marie) Chorpenning of Indianapolis; grandchildren, Andrew (Peryton) Chorpenning of Lafayette, IN, and Allison (Derek) Groves of Indianapolis, IN; and great-granddaughters Maria and Emma Chorpenning.

Russ was preceded in death by his parents and wife Janet Chorpenning.

The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to the staff at American Village for their loving care and support.

Visitation will be held on Friday, February 27th 5:00 pm – 7:00pm at Flanner Buchanan –Broad Ripple. Graveside service will be on Saturday, February 28th 11:00 am at Oaklawn Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Indianapolis.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to American Heart Association or Crossroads of America Council BSA.