(262) 653-0667
3016 75th Street, Kenosha, WI 53142
Russell Ray Gibson Sr., age 70, passed away peacefully at home on July 25th, 2025.
Russell was born in England to a Serviceman Edward F. Gibson and Faye Gibson (Née Hawkins) before moving back to the Kenosha area as a young child. He attended Central High School and worked for several years as a Manager for the K-Mart Garage before becoming an Over the Road truck driver for the remainder of his career. He worked for Crete Carriers for 33 years (accident free!) before retiring from PTI Transport. Russ married the love of his life Judy Godar in 2011.
In his spare time, Russ was known to be great with his hands. He could fix anything from car repairs to home renovations. His catch phrase was “Don’t make a fuss, just call Russ.” He would always refuse payment for his services, instead telling people to “pay it forward.” Russ was also known to be a quick-witted jokester, often friends and waitresses at his regular spots with his “Opes, you almost had it” gag. He also loved riding his Harley Davidson, making Caramel Apple Pie Moonshine, and spending quality time with family.
Only a few short years ago, Russ was connected through 23&Me with a 49-year-old son he never got to know, Bruce. Russ and Bruce were instant father and son and relished every minute together.
Russ was preceded in death by his parents Ed Gibson, and Faye and Donis Watts Sr, In-Laws Betty and Joseph Godar, brothers Roger and Skip, and brother-in-law Stephen Godar.
He is survived by his wife Judy, his children Bruce, Russell Jr, Heather, and Tiffany; Stepchildren Rebekah and Kristen; Brothers Donis Jr. and William; his sister Peggy; Brother-in-law Michael; Sister-in-law Jeanne; 17 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.
The family would like to extend special thanks to Dr. Nawez and the Staff of Aurora Cancer Center in Kenosha for their compassionate support and care during Russell’s illness. Also, a special thanks to Hospice Alliance for ensuring Russell’s final days were comfortable and meaningful.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 13th, 2025 at Johnny’Z Pour House (10936 Sheridan Road Pleasant Prairie WI 53158) from 1:00pm to 3:00pm with words of remembrance at 2:30pm. Please come share memories and stories with family and friends of Russ.
Mon - Fri: 8AM - 4PM
(262) 653-0667
3016 75th Street, Kenosha, WI 53142
Christine Schneider says:
Such a great friend, family man & neighbor, he was funny and always willing to learn all he could at fix/repair.
RIP Russell and you will always be in our thoughts and prayers
Steve & Chris
Christine Schneider says:
Such a great friend, family man & neighbor, he was funny and always willing to learn all he could at fix/repair.
RIP Russell and you will always be in our thoughts and prayers
Steve & Chris
Christopher Thelen says:
Russell was a staple of our neighborhood, making sure to welcome me with open arms when I moved to Kenosha in 2020. He always made the time to talk to our family, and kept us informed about happenings in the neighborhood. His passing leaves a tremendous hole in our lives, and our most sincere condolences are offered to Judy and the whole family. As long as one remains alive in the hearts, minds and actions of those who he loved and whose lives he touched, then one truly never dies.
Susan Behrens says:
Judy so sorry to hear of Russ’s passing. I remember how proud he was of the work he did on the house. I don’t have a working number for you of I would have called. Sending love.
Tami Lema-Mielcarek says:
Judy, I’m so sorry to hear about Russ. You’re in my thoughts and prayers!!!!
Pam and Dick says:
We will truly miss our next door neighbor and friend, Russell. He, my husband and Steven were the threesome always checking out the services performed on Madison Road. Russell loved his Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ and knew he would be with Jesus for eternity. Russell will always live on in our memories.