Richard J. "Zeke" Russ

Richard J. "Zeke" Russ, age 83, at rest on Wednesday, February 25, 2015 with his loving family by his side.

Zeke is survived by his children, Regina "Kim"Roman, Rodger, Ray, Dan, and Rick Russ; sisters, Mary Ann Gregorich, Diane Budzinski, Kay Whiteley, and Linda Sartori; and loving friend and companion, Mary Lou Cookas.

Preceded in death by his parents, Anton B. and Mary D. (nee Fabian) Russ; sisters, Gertrude Shroba and Lucille Pagorski; brother, Anton R. Russ; and loving companion, Betty Monshau.

Zeke served proudly in the U.S. Marine Corps. He was an advocate of boys' baseball during his children's youth and after. He loved St. Joseph Church and enjoyed his duties as usher. Zeke was a fixture at St. Joe's Park, spending countless hours visiting with friends and listening to polka music at Sunday picnics. Later in life he found joy in spending time with friends and fellow walkers at Louis Joliet Mall.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Zeke's name may be made to Joliet Area Community Hospice, Wounded Warrior Project, or St. Joseph Catholic Church, 416 N. Chicago St., Joliet, IL 60432.

A Celebration of Zeke's life will begin on Monday, March 2, 2015 with a visitation from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Joliet. There will be NO VISITATION OR SERVICES AT THE FUNERAL HOME. Interment to follow at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood. Obituary and tribute wall for Richard J. "Zeke" Russ at www.tezakfuneralhome.com or for information, 815-722-0524.