Russell Edward Bennett II

He was born on September 14, 1962 in Banner Elk, North Carolina to the late Russell Edward and Welda (Coffey) Bennett.

He married Karen Logsdon on September 30, 2005 in Peoria.

Russell is survived by his loving wife, Karen of Peoria; daughters, Ashleigh (Kellen Lawler) Bennett of St. Augustine, FL, Allison Logsdon of Farmington, IL, Jennifer (Neil) Teubel of Gilbert, AZ, Carrie (Miles) Colwell of Peoria and Abbey (Kevin) Hodge of Milan, IL; 13 grandchildren, Kayleigh, Landrie, Maverick, Collin, Graham, Sienna, Cole, Ford, Miles Jr., Charlotte, Remi, Josie and Rhett; sisters, Linda Vanlandingham of New Tazewell, TN and Ann (Dennis) Reilly of Navarre, FL; and several, nieces, nephews, cousins and fellow soldiers. He also leaves behind his faithful dog, Kane.

Russell lived a life defined by service, strength, laughter, and an unwavering love for his family. He proudly dedicated more than 30 years of his life to serving his country in the United States Army, including deployments overseas. His military career was a source of great pride, and the friendships he built along the way remained some of the most meaningful relationships of his life. He held a special bond with his fellow “Aviation Hookers,” sharing countless memories, stories, and camaraderie that lasted well beyond his years of service.

To know Russell was to know someone who could make people laugh, brighten a room, and make anyone feel welcome. His quick wit, infectious sense of humor, and genuine kindness left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to cross his path. Whether sharing stories, lending a helping hand, or simply enjoying time with friends and family, Russell had a way of making every moment memorable.

Above all else, Russell was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. His greatest blessing was the love he shared with his wife, Karen, who was truly his soulmate and the love of his life. He was a loving dad who excelled in creating and nurturing a blended family, embracing every member with unconditional love, support, and encouragement. Family was the center of his world, and he found his greatest joy in the time spent together, creating memories that will be cherished for generations.

Russell had a passion for the outdoors and enjoyed many of life’s simple pleasures. He loved fishing, hunting, and traveling, especially when those adventures included family and friends. His happy place was Aruba. Some of his happiest moments were spent on his beloved boat, making memories with those he loved at Oak Run, or gathering with friends at the Watering Hole. He was also a devoted sports fan who rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on the Chicago Blackhawks and Alabama football. His enthusiastic battle cry of “ROLL TIDE ROLL!” was known well by all who loved him.

Russell faced life’s challenges with extraordinary courage, including two battles with cancer. Even through difficult days, he continued to demonstrate the resilience, determination, and humor that defined his character. Though his final journey was marked by hardship, he never lost the spirit that inspired so many around him.

While his family mourns the tremendous loss of his presence, they find comfort in knowing that his suffering has ended and that he is now at peace. They take solace in the belief that God has welcomed him into His loving arms, where he has been restored, healed, and made whole once again.

Russell’s legacy of service, loyalty, laughter, and love will live on in the countless lives he touched. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Visitation will be held on Friday, June 5, 2026 from 4-7 p.m. at Davison-Fulton Woolsey-Wilton Funeral Home in Peoria. A funeral service with military honors will follow at 7 p.m. with Pastor Jon Rychener from Northwoods Community Church officiating.

Cremation rites will be accorded following the services.

Memorial contributions may be made to the MDS Foundation, Tunnels to Towers Foundation or Wounded Warriors Project.

Condolences and memories may be shared through Woolsey-Wilton.com