Charles "Chuck" Russell

Charles William Russell, 86, died peacefully on October 26, 2017, surrounded by his family.  "Chuck" was born on March 3, 1931 to Charles and Helen Russell. He was the oldest of 3 boys and his cousin Kay Swanson who grew up with him. He graduated from Fenwick High School, attended St. Ambrose University as well as Seminary School before serving in the Korean War as a Navy pilot.  He married the love of his life who he met in first grade, Jackie (Urann) in 1954 and enjoyed a career as a pilot with American Airlines for 35 years. Captain Russell loved to fly! Among the thousands of flights he flew all over the world, was the Inaugural flight of American Airlines to Frankfort, Germany.  Chuck was a faith-filled man, devoted to his family, friends and community. Much of his volunteer work was through his lifetime parish church, St. Isaac Jogues in Hinsdale, IL. He started as an altar boy and later continued as lector, Eucharistic minister, Chairman of the church’s capital campaign, member of the Resurrection Choir and mentor in the transitional housing ministry. He also volunteered throughout his life in various other ministries such as St. Thomas Hospice and Metropolitan Family services and served as President and board member for the Adult Day Care center in Downers Grove. Chuck was also a volunteer fire fighter.  He was passionate about helping people and was unafraid to not only take a stand, but to take action for what he believed in. He always found a way to "make it work"  for the cause or person for whom he was advocating.  Parkinson’s Disease took Chuck's health from him over the past 6 years but he accepted it gracefully and without complaining.  He never lost his spirit, which was shown by the way he continued to touch the lives of the staff and residents of the nursing home where he lived, where he was always ready with his contagious smile.  Chuck is survived by his devoted wife Jackie of 63 years, their 6 children, Tim (Karen), Pat (Ginny), Annie (Mark), Jim (Susan), Cathy (Ken), Jane (Mike), 19 grandchildren, several brother and sister in-laws and numerous nieces and nephews. His siblings, John, Bill and Kay predeceased him.  Visitation will be held on Friday, November 3 from 4:30pm to 8:30pm with a memorial service  7:00pm at Oak Trace, 200 Village Drive, Downers Grove, IL 60516 (campus map is available below).  Family and friends will meet on Saturday, November 4 at 10am for a Mass of Christian burial at St. Isaac Jogues Church, 306 W 4th Street, Hinsdale, IL.  Donations may be made to Amita Health Adventist St. Thomas Hospice c/o Hinsdale Hospital Foundation, P.O Box 130, Hinsdale, IL 60522-0130.  Valet parking will be available at the door.