Kenneth "Ken" Russell

Kenneth William Russell was born February 25, 1938 in Algona, Iowa to parents Clarence Russell and Matilda Claus. He passed away December 29, 2024 at the age of 86.

Ken was initially raised in Humboldt county IA, moving to West Concord, MN in 1942 and making Claremont MN his home in 1945. Ken, along with his four brothers and five sisters grew up on the family farm and attended Claremont High School where he excelled in sports and academics. Ken still holds scoring records from his days as a high school basketball player. 

He graduated high school in 1956 and continued his education at Mankato State where he received his teaching certificate for industrial arts, business education and physical education. Ken taught for the South St. Paul school system and was a student favorite during his many years of teaching. He spent the second half of his working career in real estate, remaining close with many of his clients.

Ken married the love of his life, Jeanne Alice O’Conner on June 10, 1961 in Owatonna, MN. They raised sons John Patrick, Robert Sean and Richard Steven in Cottage Grove, MN. Ken was an involved and loving father coaching many of his son’s sports teams and always finding time for family trips. He had a fierce competitive spirit and hard work ethic that he retained until his final days. Ken was also a wonderful grandfather, always available to help out in any capacity. It was not unusual to see him on the ground playing with his grandchildren well into his eighties. Ken and Jeanne were avid travelers completing over 36 cruises to all parts of the world. He was particularly passionate and loved visiting Alaska. Ken took many trips with family, friends and occasionally a solo trip to the Kenai peninsula where he would routinely catch his limit of salmon and halibut. Ken was an avid card player with cribbage being his go to game. He would often play for hours with his niece Valerie DeSanta and his special friend and companion Lou Lunker. Even the grandkids would play against grandpa. 

He spent his later years as a devoted husband and selfless care giver to his wife. Ken will be fondly remembered with a sly smile, witty sense of humor and as a unique gift giver.

Ken is survived by his three sons: John Russell of Sartell MN, Rob Russell (Lori) of Forest Lake MN, Rick Russell (Meghan) of St. Cloud MN, eight grandchildren, his much loved sisters Barbara, Dorothy, Carol and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife Jeanne, brothers Ralph, Paul, Glen, Eugene and sisters Patricia and Rose.

Dear God, I come to pray to you,

It is nice to know that you are always near

For with you so close by there is no need for fear

To know that wherever I am you are also there

So thank you God for being near

Funeral services will be announced for a future date. Arrangements through Kok Funeral Home, Cottage Grove, MN.