Ronald (Ronnie)’s Obituary Ronald (Ronnie) Leon Russell Jr., 56, of Campton Hills, Illinois, unexpectedly passed away on February 9th, 2019. He had complications with his physical heart, but his heart for others was beyond overflowing. There will be a visitation from 3:00PM—5:00PM Friday, February 15, 2019 at Christ Community Church in Saint Charles followed by a celebration service of Ronnie’s life immediately after at the same location at 5:00pm.
Ronnie was born in Geneva, Illinois to his loving parents, Ronald and Shirley Russell, on March 31st, 1962. He had an adventurous yet productive childhood, and always had fun teasing his four sisters and worrying his mother. He attended Wheaton North high school and graduated from Bethel University in 1984 with a double major in business and economics.
He learned from his father and grandfather at an early age as he worked alongside them. Ronnie eventually continued their work operating R. Russell Builders. He loved his work and built wonderful, quality family homes in the Chicagoland area for over three decades in the family business.
Ronnie loved his beautiful wife and four daughters. Nothing made him happier than spending time with them out in the mountains of Colorado, on great western camping trips, on his motorcycles, on the family farm in Kansas, or just playing with them at home in St. Charles and previously in West Chicago. He lived for Jesus, his family, and others.
It was his joy to faithfully serve in the church, from Glen Ellyn Covenant Church to Christ Community Church, with dear friends who were like family. Ronnie was focused on loving God and loving people. He served on many global missions in Czech, Haiti, Kenya, Costa Rica, Chile, and other areas.
When there was a need, he would meet it and witness to whomever he met, even in Menards. Ronnie was known for his contagious smile, wisdom, and welcoming personality; he used his life to reflect Christ’s love for others. Sadly, Ronnie is recently preceded in death by his sisters, Linda Russell and Cheri Lund.
Ronnie is survived by his loving and faithful wife Kristen of 33 sweet years. He also is survived by his children Rachel (and Eric) Westman; Sarah (and Casey) Schuring; Hannah (and Garrett) Krohn, and Kelly (and Nathan) Parks. He is also survived by his parents Ronald Sr. and Shirley; his sisters Beverly (and Kevin) Wegrzyn; Bunny (and Michael) Mirrilees; and brother-in-law through Cheri, Eric Lund.
After having four sisters and four daughters, he was blessed with four sons-in-law and four grandsons – Charlie (5), Shaun (4), Caleb (4), and Beckett (1). He was the best “Papa Bear” that could be imagined. He embraced the role of grandpa tremendously.
He also loved his niece and seven nephews and treasured all of the memories shared together. His family has grown over the years and he cherished every single addition. He was a beloved friend to many and a servant to everyone who came into his life.
Because of his hope in Christ, Ronnie lived every moment of his life faithfully loving, serving and telling others of his Savior Jesus. Praise God through whom all blessings flow! He has been made whole!
A new being in Christ! It is well with our souls.
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