Paul E. Russell

After attending school in Rock Island and Chicago, Paul received a B.S. in Engineering from the University of Illinois. Paul had a successful career in the produce and agricultural industry, working for over 20 years at A. Duda & Sons.

Paul met his future wife, Gaycina Trager, at a high school dance when he was 17 and she was 16. Paul entered the Army Air Corps in 1944 and was Gay’s “Pen Pal” until he was discharged in 1946. On 6/29/46, Gay and Paul were married and began a 62 ½ year family journey together.

Paul loved his family and treasured spending time with his children and grandchildren. He was a man of many interests. He enjoyed traveling the world with Gay, golfing with friends, singing with the Off-Key Crooners, honing his Spanish skills by serving as a translator at Shepherd’s Hope, and tutoring for the Adult Literacy League. Paul was also an active member of St. Margaret Mary Church.

Paul was predeceased by his loving wife, Gaycina, and his son-in-law, Bill Lynk. He is survived by his 8 children, Lindy Lynk, Gayle Kinkade (Mike), Deborah Russell (Elmer Wheeler), Cathy Russell (Matt Anthony), Elisabeth Russell (Jacques Bertrand), Bonny Russell Larrain (Michael), Sean Russell (Mary) and Paul J. Russell (Liz); 9 grandchildren; and 9 great-grandchildren.

Paul will be remembered by his family and friends as a good man. In lieu of flowers, please remember Paul with a donation to Hospice of the Comforter, St. Margaret Mary Church or the charity of your choice. Visitation will be on Tuesday, Sept. 6, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., at Carey Hand Cox Parker Funeral Home. A funeral mass at St. Margaret Mary Church will celebrate Paul’s life on Wednesday, Sept. 7, at 9:30 a.m. For more info see www.carey-handcox.com.