Donald Allan Russell

Age 86 of Wilmington, Illinois, died Saturday afternoon, March 18, 2023 at the Lightways Hospice Home in Joliet, Illinois.

Born January 8, 1937 in Pontiac, Illinois, Donald Allan was a son of Frank Clinton and Mildred Lucille (Hack) Russell. He was the fourth born of the family following his sisters, Anita, Doris and Judith. Don was raised in Pontiac and graduated from Pontiac Township High School with the Class of 1955. Immediately following his graduation, Don entered into the United States Navy, where he served statewide and in Europe leading up to his honorable discharge.

On March 19, 1966, Don married Margaret “Peggy” Nugent, and together they made a family and raised their sons together. Don’s employment entailed working for the Joliet Arsenal before gaining employment with the Naval Reserves. He later joined Burns Security, where he worked at both Dresden as well as Braidwood Nuclear Stations. Most recently Don enjoyed being on the security team at Empress / Hollywood Casino in Joliet before formally retiring.

One who loved the outdoors and nature, Don took pleasure in riding his bike; trekking the I&M Canal, visiting Starved Rock and traveling. He was a fan of U of I and all Chicago sports, and will be most remembered for his enjoyment of living life to the fullest.

Survivors include two sons: Stephen (Michelle) Russell of Coal City and Brian (Natalie) Russell of Wilmington; his daughter-in-law, Courtney Harris of Texas; four grandchildren: Brandon and Kaylin Russell, Madilyn De Hoyos and Olivia Russell, and numerous cherished nieces and nephews including his special niece Kathy Sabuco, who was like a daughter to Don.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Peggy (2004); two sons: Timothy Russell (2001) and James Nugent (2007), and brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: James (Jean) Nugent, Jack Nugent, Jerry (Jean) Nugent, Donald (Patricia) Nugent, Barbara Nugent and Kathleen (Bob) Kahler.

The family will receive friends for a visitation at Baskerville Funeral Home, 700 East Kahler Road in Wilmington on Sunday, March 26, 2023 between the hours of 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. Funeral services will follow Monday, March 27, 2023 at 1:30 p.m. in the funeral home with Rev. Josh Miller presiding.

Burial with full military honors will be in Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood.

Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Don’s memory to Lightways Hospice of Joliet.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.BaskervilleFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Don’s memorial page online through social media.

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Baskerville Funeral Home in Wilmington. (815-476-2181)