Howard “Howie” Russell

Howard “Howie” Russell, 50, of Aledo passed away Wednesday, September 21, 2022 at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria.

Dennison Funeral Home, Aledo is assisting the family with arrangements.

“We can do things your way, or we can do them the right way.” - a phrase Howie would often use that rang true on many occasions throughout his lifetime. A smooth talker in its purest form, he was a master of the one-liner and a stranger to no individual. Anyone who knew Howie most likely knew him as a man of mountainous character, humility, hilarity, a loving father and grandfather, a family man as not to mention a hopeless romantic until the end. Born in Muscatine, Iowa to Carolyn Russell (Nelson) and Mike Russell Sr in 1972, the baby of the four children in the house, with plenty of memories and scars to prove it. These times were made extra special with Jamie, Tina and Mike Jr. along the journey of becoming a person. His father, Mike Sr. was a beacon of solidarity and hardworking toughness in Howie’s upbringing became a mold in which he began to fill. A 1990 graduate of Westmer High School and integral part of the Warriors best football playoff run in 1989-90 season. After marrying Michelle Wise in 1992 he started his family and had children (David, Quintin and Tiffany). Howie lived all over the county between Eliza, Joy, New Boston, eventually settling in Aledo until his passing. He enjoyed collecting Labrador and duck art and sculptures of his favorite wildlife. He loved to ride his motorcycle any chance he could. Most importantly he loved to make people smile regardless of what he was going through himself. He loved the people in his life, his family most of all.

His life was impacted by countless individuals over the years, if you feel he may have impacted you as well please feel welcome to come celebrate the life of Howard Raymond Russell, Tuesday, September 27, 2022 from 4:30pm to 8:00pm at Assembly of God Church in New Boston with a Masonic service at 4:00pm. The family invites everyone to wear Harley. Memorials may be made to his children.

Those left to cherish his memory are his children David (Rhiannon) Russell, Quintin (Morgan) Russell, and Tiffany Russell; grandchildren Lexi Russell and Oaklee Russell and siblings Jamie Paul, Tina (Dan) Frieden, and Mike (Natalie) Russell Jr.

Howard was preceded in death by his parents.

Online condolences may be left at www.dennisonfuneralhome.com.