Russell (Russ) Charles Betsinger, 79, of Spring Valley, passed away on November 10, 2024, at his home, surrounded by his wife and daughters.
Russ was born November 3, 1945, in Elma, Iowa, the son of Lester and Bernice (Northness) Betsinger.
Russ graduated from Waldorf Pemberton in 1964 and entered the Jesuit Seminary. Later changing paths, he was united in marriage in 1976 to Joanie Kramer of Pine Island. He started his career working as manager of the deli at Barlow’s grocery store, owned and operated a supper club, owned Russ’s Country Corner grocery store in Lime Springs, Iowa, and later managed the American Legion in St. Charles. He retired in 2008 due to his loss of sight.
Russ was an active member of St. Ignatius Catholic Church and Knights of Columbus. He enjoyed spending time with his family and absolutely adored his granddaughters. Russ made many meals for family, friends, community and anyone. He loved playing cards, watching “Law and Order,” and every cooking show imaginable. Russ’ sense of humor made everyone laugh right to the end.
Russ was preceeded in death by his parents, son in-law Casey Mackori (Jenny), brothers Les, Ted, Jim, Bob, Virgil and Jerry Betsinger; sisters Mary Ann Greenwood, Betty Lou Finkelson, and Nancy Eckert; brothers-in-law Steve Kramer and Ken Krause, sisters-in-law Sue Krause and Barb Cowden, and mother- and father-in-law Del and Deloris Kramer.
He is survived by his wife Joanie, daughters Christy Betsinger and Jen (Stephen) Moore, four granddaughters: Amani, Nia, Sammi and Shy; two brothers: Bill (Karyl) Betsinger and Rick (Pat) Betsinger; along with many nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be Thursday, November 14 from 4-7 p.m. with the Rosary and Divine Mercy Chaplet to follow at 7 p.m. at Hindt Funeral Home. Mass will be held on Friday, November 15 at 11 a.m., with visitation at 10 a.m. at St. Ignatius Catholic Church in Spring Valley. Lunch will follow, with burial at Pine Island Cemetery.