Russell Wayne Nummer

Russell W. Nummer, of River Forest, Illinois, passed away peacefully on June 17th, 2023, at the age of 70. He was born on December 14, 1952, to Marlene (Kryger) and Walter Nummer in Melrose Park, IL. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Sharon (Piotter) and his two daughters, Tracy (Anthony Schoonveld) and Kim (Josh Rivera). He was the beloved “Paka” of his three grandchildren: Payton, Drake, and Lincoln Rivera. Russ is also survived by his brothers, Jeffrey and David Nummer. He was preceded in death by his father, Walter Nummer, and his brother, Brian Nummer.

Russ was a prominent and active member in the fire service industry. His fire career began on April 1, 1974, as a firefighter with the River Forest Fire Department, where he advanced through the ranks, ultimately reaching the highest echelon as Fire Chief of the Department. This alone would have been an impressive accomplishment, but Russ Nummer was born as driven as he was stubborn (must be the German DNA!). He took great pride in fulfilling a pledge with unwavering commitment of heart, might and determination.

Professionally, his commitment to fire service extended beyond the department and he pursued continuous education and involvement in Fire Service (in both public and private sectors), attaining multiple commendations, achievements and certifications. Once Russ obtained extensive expertise in fire investigations, he set his sights on mentoring the next generations of investigators. Russ held well respected training positions within the IAAI, as well as being an instructor for several organizations, including the Illinois Fire Service Institute. His vast knowledge in all aspects of fire science and investigations, not only led him to teaching engagements around the United States but also extended internationally through the United States Department of Justice. Russ was chosen by the Department of Justice to travel to Algiers to provide formal training for members of the Algerian Defense Ministry and National Police.

Russ also paired his drive to provide for his family with his personal interests and hobbies. In 1974, Russ opened and co-owned Flying Tiger Hobby Shop in Forest Park, Illinois. In typical Russ style, just opening the hobby shop wasn’t enough. He ventured on to become the President of the National Retail Hobby Stores Association.

As ambitious and work oriented as he was throughout his life, his favorite ways to relax were with his dogs, fishing at the family cottage, or chasing a royal flush or four deuces with his daughters at the casino.

We know that we may have been long-winded in memorializing his life, but believe it or not, there’s more.

Please join us to celebrate the extraordinary life of Russ Nummer on Sunday, June 25th, 2023, at Woodlawn Funeral Home and Memorial Park located at 7750 Cermak Road in Forest Park, Illinois 60130. The Memorial Service will be held from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM with formal remarks beginning at 4:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are appreciated to the Newfoundland Club of America Charities, http://www.ncacharities.org

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.woodlawnchicago.com for the Nummer family.