Russell C. Patnaude, 91, of Watseka passed away on Thursday, December 7, 2023 at his residence.

Russell was born on June 2, 1932 in Watseka, the son of Raymond and Maude (Matthew) Patnaude.  He married Eula Wauthier Bechtel on July 10, 1971 in L’Erable and she preceded him in death on September 18, 2008.  He was also preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Eunice Neisewander.

He is survived one niece, Marlene (Ed) Hall of Watseka; two nephews, Ronnie Neisewander of Martinton and Norman Neisewander of Watseka; one great-nephew, Nathan Neisewander; three great-nieces, Jeanette Noel, Mariah Hall, and Miranda Hall; one great-great niece, Joelle Waskosky; one great-great nephew, Maxxon Neisewander; and special friend, Joanne Fox.

Russell served in the U.S. Army.  He was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in L’Erable.  Russell enjoyed raising sheep, tractor pulling, farming, Hereford cattle, and his family.  He was employed at AO Smith in Kankakee for twenty years. 

Visitation will be from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 12, 2023 at Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

A Funeral Mass will be at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 13, 2023 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in L’Erable.  Rev. Doug Hauber will officiate.  Burial will follow at L’Erable Catholic Cemetery with graveside military rites by Watseka American Legion Post #23.

Memorials may be made to St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in L’Erable (for Masses) or Iroquois Memorial Hospice.

Please share a memory of Russell at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.