In loving memory of

Daniel J. Russell
June 30, 1953 - November 11, 2020

Daniel J. Russell, age 67, died November 11, 2020, of natural causes, in his home near Poynette, Wisconsin.

The son of Dr. William T. Russell and Alice Corcoran Russell, Dan was born June 30, 1953, in Madison and grew up in Sun Prairie with five brothers and five sisters. He lettered in wrestling at Sun Prairie High School, where he was often called "Doc." After working for a year in New Mexico with a number of SPHS friends, he returned to Wisconsin, became a licensed electrician, and worked for several major electrical contractors before his retirement.

Dan provided strong support to his parents in their long lifetimes and experienced the loss of two brothers, Terry in 1970 and Mike in 2020. Dan is survived by eight siblings--Mary, Pat, Colleen, Tim, Faith, Steve, Julie, and John--by many nieces, nephews, and their children, and also by numerous Russell and Corcoran cousins. We will all miss Dan's stories, fishing lessons, and help with everything electrical.

In lieu of gathering in person, family members held an online meeting to share photos and memories of Dan.

Tributes

Peter Blankenheim wrote on Dec 8, 2020:

"Let me add my condolences. Dan and I shared a birthday, and some fun times, when we were little. And the Russell parents were important to me as mentors-role models. Pete Blankenheim"

Sharon Blankenheim Larsen wrote on Nov 21, 2020:

"I was so sorry to see Dan's obituary in the paper and then find out that Mike had passed also. You have my deepest sympathy. I have fond memories of Sunday mornings at your house making sour cream coffee cake. Take care and be safe. Sharon Blankenheim Larsen"

Chip Plummer wrote on Nov 19, 2020:

"We are very sorry to hear about Dan passing away. Dan was one of our serice electricians for over 15 years before I retired and sold H&H Electric in 2010. Dan was a wonderful hard working employee. He was courteous to everyone and had numerous customers that he took care of, and always had the their best interest at heart. My wife or I would see Dan on an almost a daily basis and he was always cheerful and a pleasure to be around. I spent many hours looking at jobs with Dan and his customers, and he was always well prepared and very professional. Dan was a great guy and we're very sorry for your loss. Our sympathy to the family, Chip & Nancy Plummer"

Theresa & Jerry wrote on Nov 19, 2020:

"We are Saddened to hear of Dan?s Passing. What a Wonderful Cousin. He Always made Us Laugh! And Loved his Russell Chuckle! Sending All of You Our Love & Support. Jerry & Theresa Russell Reynolds"

Cate Russell wrote on Nov 18, 2020:

"Gone much too young, Dan, but I know there was quite a crowd waiting for you. Rest in peace, cousin. You are missed."

Loretta Farmer Snee wrote on Nov 18, 2020:

"Hi Mary, Pat , Coleen, Tim, Faith, Steve, Julie and John, I would like to express my sincere sympathy for the loss of your brother Dan and Mike. I just found the notice in today's paper and couldn't believe my eyes! I am one of your "across the street" neighbors, on Dewey Street and long-time babysitter. I have totally lost track of all of you. Just 2 days ago, I went by your old house on Windsor Street, and thought of each one of you and your mom and dad. If any or all of you would like, I would love to hear from you. I will leave my phone number: 608-770-7633. I live in Madison. Please know that both Dan and Mike are now at peace and smiling down on you. Much love, hugs and sympathy, Loretta Farmer Snee"

Mark Maasch wrote on Nov 18, 2020:

"I was so sorry to hear of Dan's passing. It has left a hole for a lot of folks. I almost felt like part of the Russell family back in our adolescent years. I think I spent 1 or 2 overnights a week back in those summers. Sitting around that huge kitchen table for family dinners was special. Doc and I had a special connection, being the shortest boys in our class, and Sister Cleophus' favorite targets in 6th grade. Although I have not seen Dan for many years, he was always a part of who I was and am. As is the rest of your family. I am sure you have many fond memories, and I hope they give you some comfort in this time of grieving. Hugs to you all. Mark Maasch"

Michael Kohl wrote on Nov 18, 2020:

"I am so very sorry for the loss of your brother Dan. Dan was, as all of the Russell's that I knew as friendly and kind as he could be. His laugh was infectious . He will be greatly missed. Michael Kohl"

Jenny Cox wrote on Nov 18, 2020:

"The Russell family is very special to my heart. I have many fond memories of Dan growing up. We were neighbors and spent many hours playing in our yards. Dan was always there to put smiles on our faces and was kind to all the kids. Jenny (Kroetz) Cox"