Russel Dean Roley (92) of rural Stewardson

Russel Dean Roley, aged 92, of rural Stewardson, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 28, 2024, with his loved ones by his side.

Born on February 16, 1932, in Holland Township, he was the cherished son of Harold and Emily (Russell) Roley. He was the loving husband of Anna Randall, whom he married on December 10, 1955. Russel's life was marked by his unwavering commitment to his family, his country, and his faith. He was a proud veteran of the United States Army and served his country with honor during the Korean War. His patriotism was a guiding force throughout his life. A dedicated machinist, Russel worked at Blaw-Knox Manufacturing for nearly 40 years before retiring in 1995. His diligent work ethic and skill were admired by all who knew him. He was an active participant in his community, contributing as a member of the Washington United Methodist Church, the American Legion Wilbur Braughton Post 611, and the NRA. Russel's life was a testament to service, both in his professional career and in his community engagements. Deeply religious, Russel loved his church, the Washington United Methodist Church, where he found strength and fellowship. His patriotism was matched only by his devotion to his family. He instilled in his children and grandchildren the importance of faith, love, and country. His hobbies, which included horseback riding, hunting, raising dogs, gardening, and mowing, were a reflection of his love of the outdoors and simple pleasures of life.

Russel is survived by his devoted wife Anna of rural Stewardson; his children, Nancy Roley of Effingham, Kevin (Karen) Roley of Shumway, Kathy "Kate" (Terry) Pruemer of Shumway, Daren (Dorene) Roley of Crystal Lake, and Christina (Michael) Hewing of Mode. His life was further enriched by the joy of his 12 grandchildren, Ryan (Maggie) Jansen, Eric (Karen) Roley, Michael (Brandi) Roley, Heather Roley, Josh (Melissa) Pruemer, Sara VonBehrens, Beka (Stephen) Hoene, Jacob Roley, Nathan Roley, Kyle Roley, Brianna Hewing, and Collin Hewing; his 14 great-grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, and family friends. He also leaves behind his sister, Shirley McDonald, and his beloved Bassett Hound, Miss Bell.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Darrell Roley, his brother-in-law Lyle McDonald, his grandson Gruen VonBehrens, his nephew Wesley Stigers, and his army buddy Felix Glover.

Funeral services for Russel will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 2, 2024, at the Washington United Methodist Church in rural Stewardson, with Pastor Steve Harder and Pastor Mike Shultz officiating. Visitation will take place on Monday, April 1, 2024, from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at Brummerstedt Funeral Home in Stewardson and from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service, the day of the funeral. Russel will be laid to rest with military honors at Stewardson Cemetery, provided by the Stewardson American Legion Wilbur Braughton Post 611. Memorials may be made in Russel’s honor to the church, Wounded Warrior Project, or the Paralyzed Veterans of America. Brummerstedt Funeral Home in Stewardson is assisting the family. Family and friends are invited to light a candle or share a story by clicking here.