Russell William Lenz

(Dad and Dampa)

Russell William Lenz was born on September 18, 1952, in San Antonio, Texas, to Hilmar and Roma Schultz Lenz. An only child and the pride and joy of his parents, Russell grew up in the country and worked many hours on the family farm, where he learned the values that would define his life — hard work, humility, responsibility, and quiet perseverance. He never complained and never sought recognition; he simply did what needed to be done because that was what was expected of him.

That work ethic carried Russell through his academic life, where he excelled from an early age. He graduated at the top of his class and went on to attend Texas A&I University, earning a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering. Determined to continue learning, he later attended Texas A&M, where he earned his MBA in Finance. His intelligence was matched only by his discipline and drive.

During his college years, Russell met the love of his life, Mary, at a Negley Paint Party around Christmastime in 1977. Both of their fathers worked there — Hilmar Lenz and Lawrence — and from the very first meeting, it was love at first sight. While Russell finished school, he faithfully made weekly drives to Austin to see Mary, a quiet testament to his devotion. They were married on December 16, 1978, beginning with a lifelong partnership built on love, loyalty, and mutual respect.

Russell began his professional career with PPG, living in Wichita Falls, where he and Mary welcomed their first child, Kristen, in November of 1981. In 1983, the family moved to Fort Worth when Russell accepted a position as an electrical engineer with the FAA. Their family continued to grow with the birth of Ashley in 1986 and their only son, Jeremy, in 1989.

Above all else, Russell was a devoted and hands-on father. He helped with homework, practiced countless sports with his children, and supported every activity they pursued. He created lasting memories through family adventures to Six Flags, weekend trips to San Antonio and Austin to visit grandparents, and simple moments like picking up pecans from the many trees on their farm. He led by example, teaching his children the value of commitment, kindness, and showing up for the people you love.

Professionally, Russell was deeply respected. Known for his reliability, leadership, and integrity, he was always willing to take extra time to help someone who was struggling or give an employee the chance to grow. A natural problem-solver and gifted with numbers, he could work out complex math problems in his head and was known for his love of crossword and Sudoku puzzles. A dedicated list-maker, Russell always had notepads filled with tasks to complete — and great satisfaction in checking each one off.

Russell had many passions that he generously shared with others. Every Christmas, coworkers eagerly anticipated his homemade cookies, a labor of love that became legendary. His famous tamales — a family tradition he began making at just nine years old — were especially cherished and passed down to his children and then to his five grandchildren, who absolutely adored carrying on this tradition. His cabbage rolls, Mexican rice, vegetable soup, and chili ronies were family favorites and expressions of the care he put into everything he did.

He loved working in his garden and took great pride in landscaping his yard, which was always beautifully maintained with vibrant plants and flowers. He enjoyed long walks, daily morning coffee runs with his beloved dog Buster, and following sports — especially Texas A&M football. Russell was an avid movie watcher, appreciated all genres of music, and was known for giving thoughtful advice. He was a patient listener, a steady presence, and a friend to everyone.

To his five grandchildren, he was lovingly known as “Dampa.” He never missed an opportunity to ask about their school, sports, and lives, taking a genuine interest in each of them. His love for them was constant and unmistakable.

Russell William Lenz was a man of quiet strength, unwavering dedication, and immense love. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, kindness, tradition, and family — a legacy that will continue through all who were blessed to know him. He was deeply loved, profoundly respected, and will be forever missed.

In remembering Russell, the family invites those who wish to honor him to do so in a way that reflects his joyful spirit — by wearing a Hawaiian shirt or Hawaiian attire, his favorite color, burgundy, or both. It would have made him smile, and it is a small but meaningful way to celebrate a life so well lived.

Russell is survived by his loving wife Mary, daughter Kristen (Ryan) Lewis of Indiana, son Jeremy, three granddaughters, Kyleigh, Kaydence, and Karsyn, two grandsons, Ryder and Ryker, brother-in-law Alan Ehrlich, First Cousins Doug Beeson and Carol Morgenthaler, and many friends. Russell was preceded in death by his father, Hilmar, in 1990, Mother Roma, in 2003, and his daughter, Ashley, in 2011.