Norbert Jacob Russell, age 87 of Rogers, passed away May 4, 2020 after a 20-year battle with cancer.
He was born on May 29, 1932 in Minneapolis, MN to Mathew and Mathilda (Weber). He was raised on a farm in Rogers, MN where he resided his entire life.
In 1953, he was drafted to serve his country during the Korean Conflict with the United States Army. During a time of leave from his training, he was introduced to Patricia Pietrowski. The two became pen pals when he had to leave again for his military duties, and eventually Norbert proposed to his “honey”.
When he was discharged from the Army, the two were joined in marriage on June 7, 1955 in Sobeski, MN. They took over the family farm from his parents, where they raised their seven children together. Norbert was a hard worker, taking care of many of the farming chores while also working as a carpenter. He would find the time however, to make trips to Mille Lacs to fish in his favorite spots. He was an avid outdoorsman; he liked to hunt, and go trap shooting with Pat.
Though he courageously battled cancer for 20 years, he still kept his fun-loving sense of humor. He was strong throughout his treatments, and still made sure his family was taken care of.
He is preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Bernice.
Norbert is survived by loving wife of 64 years, Pat; children, Ann (Richard), Eugene (Judy), Joan, Lois (Dennis), Carol (Paul), Lloyd (Diane), and Sharon (Marc); 10 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; special neighbors, Norm, Doreen, and Mike; and many other relatives and friends. A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at a later date at St. Michael Catholic Church in St. Michael, MN.
Special thanks goes out to the Park Nicolet hospice staff for their wonderful care and compassion.
Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, July 13, 2020 at 11:00 AM with visitation one hour prior at St. Michael Catholic Church in St. Michael, MN.