Robert "Bob" Franklin Russell, 84, of LaHarpe, Illinois passed away Saturday, May 24, 2025 at his daughter's home in LaHarpe.

Robert was born May 10, 1941 in LaHarpe, the son of Franklin and Myrtle (Briscoe) Russell. He grew up in the LaHarpe area and graduated from LaHarpe High School in 1960. Robert worked several jobs in his life including construction, shearing sheep with the Palmer boys, owning Russell's Jewelers, the Country Café, and owning a trucking business until he retired. He married Kathryn Harris. They later divorced, but remained lifelong friends. Robert was a member of the Masonic Lodge for over 50 years, as well as Shriners. Robert enjoyed working on watches and clocks. He loved to sit on his front porch and watch his grandchildren play or visit with family and friends.

Robert is survived by his siblings: Mildred Jones and Donna (Ron) Bennett; five children, Ronald (Beth) Covert of LaHarpe, David (Brenda) Covert of Dallas City, Illinois, Shirley (Darrin) Johnson of LaHarpe, Henry Worley of Lomax and Rebecca (Christopher) Burgdorf of LaHarpe, nine grandchildren, Joshua (Nicole) Covert, Kaela Covert, Krista Covert, Brian Covert, Matthew (Amber) Covert, Lorrie (Logan) Harl, Jessica (Dawson) Ryner, Kane Burgdorf and Tegan Burgdorf; several great-grandchildren and his dog companion: Linney.

Robert was preceded in death his parents, Franklin and Myrtle Russell; ex-wife and long-time friend: Kathryn Russell; four siblings: Delmar Russell, Albert Lee Russell, Helen Torrance, and Louise Link.

Cremation has been entrusted to Banks & Beals Funeral Home of LaHarpe. A Celebration of Life will be held at later date.

A memorial fund has been established for Shriners Hospitals for Children or St, Jude Children's Research Hospital. Memorials and cards may be sent to the Robert Russell Memorial Fund, c/o Banks & Beals Funeral Home, P.O. Box 503, LaHarpe, Illinois 61450.

The family would like to thank Beacon of Hope Hospice of Galesburg for caring for their father in his time of need. To leave an online condolence for the family, please visit Robert's obituary at banksandbeals.com.