Russell G. Lee
February 16, 1950 ~ April 10, 2026
Born in:
St. Charles , IL
Resided in:
Princeton, IL
Russell G. Lee, 76, of Princeton, IL formerly of St. Charles, IL passed away in his home on Friday, April 10, 2026.
Russ was born on February 16, 1950, in St. Charles, Illinois, the son of Russell F. and Irene (Auer) Lee. He married his high school sweetheart, Pat Johnsen, at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church St. Charles. Pat preceded him in death on April 17, 2014.
Russ attended college in Nebraska, where he studied botany. He began working in sales at Gunter’s Clothing and Tailoring at a young age, eventually working his way up to General Manager. Later, he served as a Correctional Officer with the Illinois Department of Corrections, beginning his career in St. Charles retired in Kewanee in 2013.
Russ enjoyed tending to his flower garden and spending time with his beloved neighbors, as well as his best friend and 4 legged companion, Moose. He also generously volunteered his time in the past at Freedom House and Second Story Teen Center in Princeton. Russ was a master storyteller, some tales tall, and others true, nevertheless entertaining. He loved his daily lunch visits to Culvers, where everyone knew his name, and made him feel like a celebrity.
He is survived by his two children, Andrew (Joe Keller) Lee of Princeton and Kelly (Scott Hardie) Lee of Bradenton, FL; two sisters, Karen Russell of Madison, WI and Sandra Owens of Philadelphia, PA, as well as numerous nieces and nephews who lovingly called him “Uncle Rusty.”
Russ was preceded in death by his wife, parents and sister Barbara Lee.
Cremation Rites have been accorded. Private Burial of cremated remains will be in Oak Hill Cemetery in Geneva, IL.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to Freedom House or Second Story, or consider planting a flower or tree in memory of Russ.
“If you can’t have fun while doing it, then it’s not worth doing, you understand where I’m coming from?”
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The family greatly appreciates donations made to these charities in Russell G. Lee 's name.
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Freedom House
440 Elm Pl
Princeton,
IL
61356
Memories Timeline
Guestbook
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Russell’s Family. May they Find Peace and
Comfort. Knowing that He’s Reunited with
Loved Ones In Heaven. Under the Comfort and Protection of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,