Russell Myers

MORTON – Russell F. “Russ” Myers, 76, of Morton, passed away Thursday, October 6, 2022, at OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria.

Russ was born on August 11, 1946, in Peoria, to Russell E. and Josephine P. (Neff) Myers. The eldest of four children, he had two brothers, Joseph (Linda) Myers of Temple, TX; and Thomas (Hollie) Myers of Glen Ellyn, Ill., and one sister, Mary Myers of Aurora, CO.

He attended Holy Cross High School Seminary in Notre Dame, IN and graduated from Spalding Institute in Peoria, IL. After high school he obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Business at the University of Notre Dame where he served in the Navy Reserve Officers Training Corps. Upon graduation he continued to serve in the Navy from 1968 through 1972, during the Vietnam era, as a Lieutenant JG. Post-military, Russell earned his Master of Arts from Roosevelt University of Arts in Chicago.

He worked in management for the State of Illinois and later for the Peoria County Township in office management. For many years he served as a Morton Election Judge. 

Russell Myers married the love of his life, Kathleen “Kathy” Mattern, in 1981 in Pekin, Ill. and built a loving family with their two children, Russell “Nick” Myers of Peoria and Michael “Zach” (Steffani Ronfeldt) Myers of Loveland CO. 

Having benefited from scouting as a youth with his dad, Russell served as an assistant Scoutmaster and as a Committee Board Member for his sons’ Boy Scout Troop 178. He also introduced his boys to the world of sci-fi, vintage comedy, and adventures through his love of books and classic movies.

Throughout his life he enjoyed camping with his family, golfing, bowling, woodcarving, puzzles and, of course, all things related to Notre Dame’s Fighting Irish. He had a dry wit, good sense of humor and was mostly on “Russ Time.”  Helping and mentoring others brought joy to Russell’s heart- many know him best for his heart of gold. He made the world a better place for many people, often without them even knowing it.

Cremation rites have been accorded. Please join the family for a Celebration of Russell’s Life at 10 a.m. Saturday, November 12, 2022, at the Morton Knights of Columbus, 616 West David Street, Morton, IL, which, naturally, will be followed by the Notre Dame vs Navy game.

The family is eternally grateful for all who eased his way. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in memory of Russell to OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria or to a charity of your choice.

Knapp-Johnson Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Morton is handling arrangements.

To leave an online condolence for the family, visit www.knappjohnson.com.