Russell "Russ" C. Josh, age 77 passed away Thursday, February 1, 2024 in the home he loved, surrounded by the people he loved.

Russ was born October 3rd,1946 in Iowa Falls, IA. to Donald and Kathryn Josh. He honed his leadership skills at an early age as the oldest sibling to his brother and two sisters. He attended Kaneland High School and later University Wisconsin Platteville where he met the love of his life, and the person he made laugh everyday for 53 years, Maureen Guerin. Together, they raised four children; Katie (Ron) Fox, Maggie Peck, Sarah (Jeremy) Alexander, and Daniel (Caryn) Josh. They created a home that was filled with laughter, love and always welcoming to anyone who came to their door.

For those who knew him, you will understand how difficult it would be to illustrate this most unique man in anything short of an episodic novel. He was a dreamer, a brilliant humorist, a quick wit, a forever champion of the underdog, a conservationist, a conversationalist, leader of many, stranger to none. He was unapologetically himself. Russ was never a man of material things. His favorite place was on a tractor or mower somewhere in DeKalb County. An entrepreneur, of sorts, creating gathering spots and clubs throughout his life; a founding member of Piranhas, SAC, the Grasser, The Pleasure Dome, and of course; LaFong. He was a uniter. He brought together friends from every walk of life with his effortless inclusion. He deeply cherished his friends and that love has been felt in return by the outpouring of comfort from so many.

Russ was dedicated to his community. He was one of the longest serving Township Trustees in the history of the State of Illinois, a long serving Precinct Committee Member, namesake of the "Russell C. Josh Making a Difference Award" awarded by DeKalb County Court Services, volunteered on numerous political campaigns, championed a Safe House for DeKalb County at risk youth, endlessly donated his time to serving others and always, unequivocally, without fan fare or need for acknowledgement.

He was a list maker. Of all the things he was proud of in his life, his grandchildren were at the top of the page. He was Papa to; Jordan (Shelby), Joslin, Evan, Brock, Olivia, Jaden, Hunter, Dawson, Addison, Quinn, Adria, Isla, Julia. Each one had a special relationship, a nickname, and were taught numerous of his "Life Lessons" to become a "more well rounded" person.

Russ has several nieces, nephews, sisters and brothers-in-law and extended family who each have a story or antidote followed by a laugh of their favorite Russ memory. He is preceded in death by his parents, brothers-in-law, sister-in-law, and many dear friends.

A celebration of this most incredible man will take place on July 13th, 2024 from 4:00-8:00 PM at 28280 Lukens Road, Sycamore. Music will be played, drinks will be hoisted, and stories told of "A Way of Life" like no other.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the DeKalb County Forest Preserve.

If you would like to honor Russ; take a walk in nature (with a sturdy walking stick), help someone in need, have a good drink with a great meal, laugh with a friend, or just sit by a fire to contemplate how wonderful life is.

Arrangements were completed by the Butala Funeral Home and Crematory of Sycamore, IL.   To sign the online guest book, go to www.butalafuneralhomes.com