Russ Bessenecker passed away peacefully early Thursday morning, April 21, 2022, at 81 years of age.

Russ grew up in Davenport, IA in humble circumstances and was the oldest of 8 children. He joined the Navy as a young man and put himself through school at St. Ambrose College where he majored in English and History. Russ was engaged in a number of careers from the trades to education, and social services. But mostly, he was devoted to his wife Margaret and his four children from his previous marriage: Mike, Scott, Chris and Alison (Braswell). Russ treasured his 8 grandchildren, and 4 great grandchildren, and loved regular family reunions with his immediate family and siblings

Russ was a voracious reader and a lover of history. He enjoyed bringing new life to things that were discarded. He restored antique cameras and audio devices, cars, homes and was an adventuresome traveler. He cherished long walks along the beach with Margaret and went on hiking adventures in national parks all over the country.

Russ will be missed deeply by all who loved him.