Russell G. Klein

Russell G. Klein, 81, of Staunton, IL - formerly of New Douglas, IL, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, May 24, 2026.

Visitation will be held from 9 to 11 AM on Saturday, June 6, 2026 at St. Paul United Church of Christ in Staunton, IL, with a Memorial Service to follow.  A private family burial will take place at a later date.

Born on March 7, 1945 in Aviston, IL, Russell was the beloved son of George & Mary (Brazinski) Klein.  On July 13, 1968, he married the love of his life, Judith Slifka, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Livingston, IL.  Judith preceded him in death on December 9, 2025.

Russell dedicated 30 years of service as a mechanical technician at Spectrulite Consortium in Madison, IL.  He was also a proud member of Laborers Local Union #397 since 1975.  Deeply committed to his community, he served with the Livingston Fire Department, including six years as Fire Chief, until moving from Livingston to Staunton in 1990.  He was also a member of the Madison County Fireman's Association & a 3M member.

Above all, Russell was a devoted father & grandfather who took great joy in supporting his family.  He could always be counted on for his steady presence, kindness, wry sense of humor, & willingness to help others.  He faithfully attended countless sporting events & extracurricular activities over the years, & he generously gave his time as a girls' Little League softball coach for 11 years, treating each girl like his own.

Russell is lovingly remembered by his four children -  Kristine (Peter) Dederich,  Tammy (Troy) Eaker,  Kevin Klein,  &  Angela Klein (Michael Helmkamp);  his grandchildren -  Hannah Klein,  Erin Dederich,  Eli Klein,  Amy Dederich,  Sophi Klein,  Molli Klein,  &  Matthew Klein;  & his three step-grandchildren -  Jacob Eaker,  Lucas Eaker,  &  Elizabeth (Isaac) Daugherty.  Also surviving are two brothers -  Arnold (Judy) Klein  &  Donald (Janet) Klein;  sisters-in-law -  Alice Slifka  &  Tammy Slifka;  as well as many nieces, nephews, dear friends, & extended family members whose lives were blessed by knowing him.

Besides his wife & parents, he was preceded in death by his in-laws -  Frank & Sylvia Slifka;  his sister -  Georgetta (Lee) Alexander;  & his brothers-in-law -  Frank Jr.,  Alan,  &  David Slifka.

Though Russell may be gone from our sight, he will forever remain in our hearts.  May he rest in God's eternal peace.  In his honor, let us continue to spread the love he embodied.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the family or to the Livingston Fire Department in honor of Russell's legacy.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.