Seattle Customers are sending their condolences to the family.  This is from Bob, the President of Star Rentals.

Good morning Jeff, 
That is very sad news.  Yes, we liked Russ very much and he was very bright, personable, and was able to articulate so well.  We will miss working with him and I will share this info with the team.  So sorry for your loss.
Regards,
Bob


I worked with Russ the past 20 years but really got to know him over the past few years. I retired a week ago and just found out of his passing. Hang in there, Russ was a great friend and colleague and I will miss him as I know his clients will, Russ was always a steadying hand and provided great comfort to them. I know he provided the same support and comfort to his family. Family was always first priority for Russ!

Russ was just a good dude. I first remember meeting Russ while job shadowing at Principal in high school. I don't remember anything else from that day other than Russ being awesome. He was such a good example of attitude, how to treat people, and taking pride in his work. He will be greatly missed!

Russ was such a great person, man and colleague.  We've worked together for 19 years and he left such a mark on all he came into contact with.  What I remember most is how much he loved his family.  He will forever be missed.

I have no words.  Russ was an amazing husband, father, son, brother, and a dear friend.  Russ had such a beautiful smile.  His smile would just get bigger when he spoke of Pam, Marissa, and Austin.  Prayers for his extended family.   I am heartbroken for your family.  God Bless all of you today and the days and years ahead.   With Love, Sharon Long 

Russ and I shared the same job the past ten years covering investment responsibilities in the west. There were multiple times I’d hear my name in an airport and turn around to see Russ calling me, always standing first in line waiting to board a plane.  He wasn’t on his phone, wasn’t consumed with anything else, just hanging out, looking around, wondering who he would run into. That was Russ.

So sorry for your loss. Russ was a special friend and will truly be missed.

I was shocked to just learn about Russ' passing. I knew Russ for about 4 years. I am an independent advisor for qualified plans ((ie 401(k)s and 403(b)s)). When I first met Russ, he was brought to the table as a funds expert to help me and my clients better understand what was going on with their funds. Russ was a pro. He was extremely knowledgeable about the nuts and bolts of our industry, he articulated his points very well with everyone involved, and he was especially intuitive when it came to structuring certain talking points and reacting to what he sensed needed to be addressed. After that first meeting, I wanted Russ at the table with me for every meeting because he added so much value. Russ obliged and we got to work with each other ever since. Many may not know Russ offered himself as a resource to our oldest son, who is graduating from college next weekend, when our son needed help with guidance for his field of study. Russ was always there to help me and those around me. I wish I got to spend more time with him and to me he is irreplaceable as a professional college. 
God rest his soul - he was a great man!
John David 
Albuquerque, NM
Wimberley, TX 

I worked with Russ for over 25 years.  To say someone was larger than life can sound cliche.  But with Russ that phrase was so true.  .  His stories of dealing with airline disruptions should be required reading.  His acts of selfless kindness are way too numerous to document.  One, however, sticks out with me.  I came into the office on a Friday not long after having surgery on my one good eye.   As the day went on my vision deteriorated dramatically.  The eye Dr couldn't see me till 4.    There was no way I could drive.  My wife was out of town till early evening.  Russ to the rescue.  I didn't even have to ask. After dropping me off I told him that I would wait for my wife to pick me up.  He said, "No worries."  When I was done (not till after 6pm) there was Russ in the Reception Area, waiting for me.  He said he didn't want my wife to worry.  He took me home.  I found out later that he and Pam had plans that evening that he was late for.  I miss him already! 

I first became acquainted with Russ in 2015, and he visited in my office in early 2016.  And except for the COVID era, every quarter since.  Since we do not use outside advisors, his input and advice has been so helpful to my administration of our 401(k) plan.  Just three months prior to his passing, almost to the day, he and I and Nick were eating at Babins Seafood Restaurant here, enjoyed it, and Russ remarked that we should do this every quarter.  We all agreed.  The world was a better place for his being here.  I am sad.

I am so sorry for your loss. I've had the privilege of working with Russ on and off over the course of my career, and more closely over the last 2 years. Russ was an amazing colleague and built many deep relationships with his clients and his partners at Principal. Beyond that, he was just a wonderful human being who truly cared about his family, friends, clients and coworkers. Russ had a wealth of knowledge and I learned something every time I spoke with him.  He will be missed. 

This is such a blow.  Russ and I worked together on a number of clients over the past 6 years.  He had a very rare ability to put you at ease and make you feel like you've been friends forever even if you only knew him for a moment.  Our shared clients are heartbroken and it can be summed up in this message I received from one, "Russ was a great teacher…he knew so much about the markets and I learned a lot from him over the years.  He was such a down to earth guy as well…easy to connect with and to talk to about, well, almost anything.  I know you’re going to miss him because I surely feel that way and only connected with him just a few times a year. "  This sentiment has been shared over and over with me.  I will miss his knowledge, his laughter, his stories and his friendship.  Praying for peace and comfort for your family.  

Russ was an amazing man to know.  He was full of fun and kindness and brought  a smile to everyone he met.  We will especially remember his love for children, and what a great dad/uncle/great uncle he was.  He was that rare man who would come up to you at a family gathering, take your crying baby and play with him/walk around with him for an hour.  And ... as the kids got older, teasing them in a fun way and really being interested in their activities - always making a point to connect with them.  We will miss him greatly, and our thoughts and prayers are with you.

I had  the privilege of working with Russ for over the last 20+ years.  I cannot tell you how deeply saddened I am.     Russ is one of those guys you just wanted to be around.    He was just the most sincerest, honest,  and family oriented man I have ever been around.   You always felt good being around Russ.    He was not only a great ambassador for Principal, but what it was to be such a good person.   I remember early in my client visiting days, I traveled with Russ to NYC for my first trip ever to the Big Apple, and Russ wanted to show me around.    I was worried when getting ready to go out on the city that I would look like a tourist, but when Russ showed up in the lobby with his fanny pack on, I had nothing to worry about!     What a great man that we have lost way to early.   My sympathies to the entire family, wishing you all comfort in these difficult times.

Russ was such a dear person. I had the pleasure of working with him for many years. The thing I remember the most - he loved his wife and children unconditionally. He was quick to share a story about something that was going on with his family. 
Cheers to Russ! 
May eternal light shine upon him. 

I had the honor and privilege of working with Russ for the past 5 years. As many others have already expressed, there was never a dull moment around him. He was passionate, full of joy, and always had a smile on his face.  No matter the topic in client meetings, Russ seemed to always be able to relate by telling a story that revolved around his children. Often times it was a long winded story, and we had to remind him that we only had so much time in the meeting, but that personality and beaming love for his family is what made him so endearing to clients. Russ and I only communicated  a handful of times throughout each year, but every time we connected, I felt as though I was reuniting with my best friend. He was genuine, authentic, and just an absolute pleasure to be around.  Pam, Austin, and Marissa, my deepest and heartfelt condolences. I will miss him greatly.

I worked with Pam and met Russ only a few times, but I feel like I’ve known him for years. He is very friendly, caring, and a helpful person. Once, we met Russ and family at the airport. Tickets were overbooked and 2 of my family members were on waiting list, which made us panic because we were traveling to India and would miss our connecting flights. Russ came to my husband, whom he had never met before, and helped suggest options so we wouldn’t miss our connections. He also talked to the flight agent (friend) for almost an hour and managed to get us seats in the same flight, which helped us out a lot.

Pam, Austin, and Marissa: while Russ is not physically present here, he will always be in your hearts and will continue to look after you forever ❤️

Russ was an amazing person that cared so much for his clients.  I always enjoyed catching up with him and getting his perspective on a variety of topics.  Principal clients and employees will dearly miss Russ.  My condolences to his family and friends.  



Pam, Austin, Marissa, family and friends of Russ.  
Thoughts and prayers to you for your loss.  
I had the opportunity to get and know Russ more once the pandemic began and our lives changed.  After spending 22 years with Principal, working with Russ became a necessity via TEAMS or ZOOM to meet with our clients.  Proof that good can come from bad.  I wouldn't have gotten to know Russ to the extent that I did if it were not for the  pandemic.
Your lives, our lives, are changed once again with the loss of Russ.  That is the bad.  I can't say that I knew much about Russ' faith but knowing the person he was tells me that he is in heaven with our Creator and Savior, Jesus.  That is the good!  We will see him again!
Russ will be greatly missed by those who know and love him.
God Bless.
Kirk Sadilek
Basepoint Wealth - Cedar Rapids  

I loved traveling with Russ, never a dull work trip with him around.   First there was a group of us catching an afternoon flight out of PA.   The flight was delayed.   Russ said he would be back in a moment, then sat and visited with us for a while longer as we watch the delays continue.   Then he stood up and said, “I have to go, Pam and I are going camping tomorrow and I am not sitting here all night”.    He left us behind!  Then he sent us pictures of his home and said I told you I would make it back, as we are still in the airport.   He had the miles and status! 

Another trip, I was telling him about my summer daycare dilemma.    He asked about my expectations and if I had flexibility in case the sitter needed time off.  Then smiled and said my daughter will interview with you.  I said I don’t need to interview her, I will take her!   He said no she needs to interview; this is a job.   Easiest two summers of my life, THANK YOU Marissa!  

Russ will be missed by everyone he touched!  His family was always first.


I worked w/ Russ for 20+ years and he was one of my favorites.  He was great with our clients and always took his time to explain difficult concepts in a manner that everyone in the room could understand.  He was passionate about his work, clients, family and friends.  I enjoyed when he shared his stories, made you feel like you were there.  Whether is was hunting, family or motorcycle trips.  Always took the time to get to know you and cared about everyone.  Even if you had not talk with him for sometime, you just picked up where you left off.  I feel lucky to have worked with him.  God bless you and the family, my prayers are with you.  



I only had the pleasure of knowing Russ for about 10 years.  And then, only through work.   But Russ being Russ, we developed quite a friendship.  Continually talking about life, family, world events and all.   My wife was a fair bit younger than me when we met, so I particularly enjoyed his stories of his courtship with Pam.  And how he navigated the relationship with Pam's father in those early days!  He always talked about his family and their adventures.   My clients loved him too.  Russ always brought intelligence, insight, wisdom and warmth to client meetings.  He will be missed by all  --  jeff harvey, seattle

To Russ's family, I am so sorry for your loss.  I feel like I was just prepping for a client meeting with him a few weeks ago and spoke to him on the phone.  I was absolutely shocked to hear the news.  Its such a shame that he was taken so soon.   He was such a great coworker and team player.  He was very friendly and kind.  I could always count on him to help me with client requests and collaborate on meetings.  He will be greatly missed. 

Having been lucky enough to work with Russ, I always respected his intellect and his dedication. He was strong in his convictions but he could be when he was spot on correct. 

This news is a shock. Condolences to the family. You did lose Russ way too early. 

Dave Verhille and the TrueNorth Retirement Team

So very sorry for your loss. He was a wonderful associate and made reviewing investments fun and interesting. He made all of us who worked with him feel like we were his very best friend. 
He will be so missed.
My wish for your family is Gentle Peace, Quiet Strength, Steadfast Love.  You are in my heart and in my prayers.
Edy Findlay   
xox

Russ left an imprint of faith in the hearts of so many young at the Lutheran youth conference in New Orleans.  He will be missed but we know he knew the One whom he belongs to!  ♥️🙏

Sending my sympathies to the Heinzerling Family.  I had the pleasure of visiting with Russ a few times a year while as a client of Principal Financial Group.  He shared many stories about his family - he adored and loved each of you very much.  He was such a kind, genuine man.  I am so very sorry for your loss and am keeping all of you in my thoughts and prayers.  

I met Russ a couple weeks after I started at Principal in 2019.  We were in NM visiting clients during my first work trip. It was a 3 day trip and in the middle of it he flew to the East Coast to cover another meeting.  He then flew right back to NM to finish up the scheduled meetings there. I was surprised that anyone would be willing to travel that much in such a short amount of time. I last saw him a month ago in Alliance, NE.  He drove 9 hours one way to attend a client meeting there.  The client was very appreciative because they don’t get many visitors there.  He truly loved his job and was more dedicated to his clients than anyone I know.  Russ and I worked a lot together during my 3 years at Principal. He had a positive impact on everyone around him.  He always went above and beyond for people. Russ was both a mentor and a friend to me.  He is irreplaceable and he will be greatly missed.  

I first met Russ in the late 1970's playing softball at Northside Park with some of the neighborhood kids, in Lake Mills, IA.  I used to see him driving his "Orange" car.  Playing his 38 Special songs.  Everytime I heard "Hold on loosely" I still think Russ Heinzerling with a smile. He was always so humble, kind & very thoughtful.  

My deepest condolences to Russ' family & friends.

God Bless!



Russ was a dear co-worker and a second brother to me.  He and I covered Las Vegas for 15 years.  He loved to people watch.  And as you know there are a lot of interesting people walking the strip in down town Las Vegas.  We would sit there for hours laughing and wondering why the people did what they did.  I always let him pick the restaurant, it had to be on the strip and have a table and chairs that looked out on the strip.   Once we had our laughs we had to get home to talk to our dear spouses.  He loved Pam, Austin and Marissa.  We shared stories of our childeren and how proud of fathers we were.  I will cherish those memories for a life time.  Until I see you again in Heaven-Love you Russ.

Russ (and Pam) was our neighbor for a few years and was by far THE BEST neighbor we have ever had. He was always more than happy to sit and chat or help out with anything we needed. We enjoyed meals out, Hawkeye game day parties, and sitting around the fire pit handing out Halloween candy. Russ was a bright spot in a very negative world and we cherished our friendship with him and Pam so very much. To say he will be missed just isn't adequate. He touched so many lives and this world will just not be the same without him.

Tony and Lisa Dirksen 

One time 10 years ago I was headed to Hong Kong & China to study for my Masters degree. It was January and my outbound flight from DSM the next day on American was canceled due to a blizzard. I lost it, at work. I was a wreak. 
If I didn’t leave THAT day my entire trip would be ruined. I was freaking out. My friend/colleague Russ stepped in immediately. He pulled me aside, picked up his phone and dialed one phone #, United’s customer service. 
All I heard was United Airlines kissing his a** for 20 minutes as he arranged for me to be on the next flight to Chicago, then Seattle, then Tokyo, then Hong Kong. He used HIS status to help me. I knew right then, I was indebted to him forever. 
Yesterday I found out Russ passed away. Way too young, way too soon. And my heart is broken. 
Russ was always happy. Russ always had a story or three to tell when we caught up. Russ adored his wife Pam and his family.  Russ traveled for work, every week, pretty much every year the last 20+ years I have known him. 
But what I admired the most is Russ took HIS time and he spent it with his family. He loved to camp. There were so many 3-4 day weekends after a long week away with clients when he simply packed up the camper & checked out. We can all take a lesson from Russ....life is short ~Work hard, love your family harder. 
Russ was a sweet man. Russ was my friend. I'm so very sorry for your loss. 

I had the opportunity to work with Russ prior to my employment with Principal and also worked with Russ on joint clients while here at Principal.  Russ was always a conversation I looked forward to whether we chatted about our hunting adventures or work related items.  I will miss both of these......
Prayers to you and your family Pam.


My first memory of Russ is when I was with Pam in Emmons near the school, he pulled up and we visited. I could tell by the sparkle in his big eyes that  he was already head over heals for Pam.
I don’t think that sparkle of love ever left.  It was in Pam’s eyes too. 

Pam, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

OBITUARY

Russ Heinzerling

December 17, 1963 – May 9, 2022

Ankeny Funeral Home & Crematory

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