Russell David Feign

Russell was born on September 26, 1950 to Richard and Rosemary Feign in Chicago, IL. He grew up with two older brothers, Richard & Rodney, and a younger sister, Sherry.

After Russ graduated from St. George High School in 1969, he went on to serve in the United States Army. After his discharge from service, he began his 40-year career at ComEd, working in many positions including lineman, engineering, logistics and operations.

Upon his retirement in 2013, Russ transitioned from full-time employee to full-time helper for his family, friends and community. Russ had a servant’s heart and hands; if there was a need, Russ was there to fill it. He was a jack-of-all-trades and always willing to give of his inexhaustible talents, which ranged from MacGyver to prankster. Whether replying with a witty quip or cracking a “goofy” joke to make you smile, Russ knew how to make life fun.

Russ started dating Helen, the girl across the street, on January 1, 1968. It was a match made in heaven. Their love letters kept him going during his time in the Army, and they were married on September 2, 1972. They raised three children - and many dogs - together: Cory (Ann), Adam (Heidi), and Caitlin (Jordon). He found one of the greatest joys of his life in his role as Poppy to Addison, Piper, Penny (Adam & Heidi), Julian, and Jordan (Cory & Ann).

Throughout his life, Russ was a huge fan of sports, and he especially loved The Bears and The Cubs. He joked that he practically lived at Wrigley Field growing up, consistently earning himself re-entry tickets by helping the ushers clean up after games. He was over the moon to see the Cubs FINALLY win the World Series in 2016. He was so excited for their streak that he decked out his 1926 Model A with all things Cubs, and was even featured in the Northwest Herald for driving the “Go Cubs Go” car! He loved to take family and friends out for rides in the car, and when passers-by would ask to take a picture of the car, he would insist they get in it so they could get a great photo of themselves - he found great joy in life by bringing joy to other people.

Russell was predeceased by his parents, Richard and Rosemary, and his brother Rodney. He is survived by his beloved wife and caretaker Helen, his children Cory (Ann), Adam (Heidi), Caitlin (Jordon), grandchildren Addison, Julian, Piper, Jordan, and Penelope, and siblings Richard and Sherry.

Russ lived a legacy of love that was rooted in his Christian faith. For decades, he served in numerous ministries in his church family; his mission in life was to “be Jesus to other people.” It was his strong belief that heaven is waiting on the other side for anyone who puts their faith in Jesus Christ as their savior, and surrenders their life to Him. And so, his parting message for friends and loved ones was “Tell everyone I want to see them again.”

A Celebration of Life will be held at Evangelical Free Church of Crystal Lake, 575 E. Crystal Lake Ave, Crystal Lake, IL on Saturday, November 9: Welcome at 10am; Service at 11am; Luncheon to follow at the church. Russ brought fun everywhere he went and we are treating this as a true celebration of his life- in that spirit, we encourage you to wear things that feel like Russ- clothing representing The Cubs, The Bears, Snoopy, American patriotism, Life is Good- anything that honors Russ is welcome! In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Benevolent Fund at their home church of 35 years, Evangelical Free Church of Crystal Lake.