Russell Martin

Russell “Russ” Martin, 83, of Wenona passed away at 8:56 PM Sunday, December 3, 2017 at his home, surrounded by his wife and children.  

A memorial visitation will be held from 9:30-11:00 AM Saturday at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Toluca.  A memorial mass will be held at 11 AM Saturday at the church.  Father Patrick Greenough will officiate. Internment will be in Cumberland Cemetery in rural Wenona.  The Hurst Funeral Home in Wenona is in charge of the arrangements.

He was born on September 7, 1934 in Calhoun County, IL to Oscar & Flossie (Gates) Martin.  He married the former Ann Brown on November 29, 1958 in Wenona.  She survives.

He is also survived by his children:  Julie (Patrick) Murphy of Bloomington, Paul (Kim) Martin of Toluca, Ben Martin of Chicago, Patrick (Theresa) Martin of Wenona and Joe Martin of Wenona; grandchildren:  Nat and Tim Murphy, Mallory (Darren) Fiedler, Jacob and Noah Martin, and Seth & Owen Martin; great grandchildren:  Kolten and Annah Fiedler and one sister, Geraldine Freeman of Pleasant Hill, IL.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister Maxine Minor.

He attended Pleasant Hill High School and then served in the United States Army. Russ worked in the tire industry, first in sales and later as a territory sales manager. 

Russ was an active member of his community. He served on the Wenona School Board, acting as president for many years. He was a Wenona alderman for 18 years and functioned as interim mayor as well. He served on both the Wenona City Park and Library boards. 

There is nothing Russ enjoyed more than spending time with his family. He had a contagious laugh, loved a good meal, and to share endless stories around the dinner table. Russ was one of a kind. We were lucky to have called him husband, father, grandpa and friend. He will be missed!

Memorials may be directed to the Wenona City Park Board or the Wenona Food Pantry.

 Service Information