A lifetime resident, Russell was born in Racine on November 20, 1923, to the late Earl and Frances (nee: Hobson) Burks. He proudly served our Country with the United States Navy in WWII, aboard the USS Henrico, from 1944-46 as a 2nd Class Motor Machinists Mate.On July 3, 1948, in Racine, he was united in marriage with Evelyn Viola Vivian (nee: Bates). Russell was employed by Seven-Up Bottling Co. for over 32 years, retiring as a service manager in 1986. Shortly after, he realized retirement was not going to be for him. Thus, Russell began working for NAPA Auto Parts in Sturtevant, a position he kept for over 16 years.
Russ was a member of the Teamsters Local 43. Among his interests, he enjoyed attending Air Shows, listening to Country-Western music, and cheering on the Packers and Cubs. Above all, Russell loved and cherished being in the surroundings of his entire family.
Surviving are his loving wife of over 60 years, Evelyn; their children, Russell (Kathy) Burks Jr. of Seattle, WA, Vicki (Carl) Wells of Racine, Richard (Tamara) Burks of Richfield, and Janet Lawrey of Racine; daughter-in-law, Kim Sieverkropp-Burks of Racine; 6 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; brother, Robert (Grace) Burks; sister-in-law, Mary Burks; many special nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends too numerous to mention by name.
In addition to his parents, Russell was preceded in death by his beloved son, Kenneth Burks, in 2001; brothers, Harold (Esther), Ken (Tobe), Don (Marie) and Joe Burks; and sister, Evelyn (LeRoy) Christensen.
Funeral services will be held in the funeral home on Thursday, January 29, 2009, at 1 p.m. Visitation will be in the funeral home on Thursday from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. In accordance with Russell’s wishes, private interment services for the family, with military honors, will follow in West Lawn Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the family have been suggested.
A note of thanks to all of Russell’s friends at Lake Oaks, Lincoln Village, New Beginnings and a special thanks to Dr. Robert Brown for all of the kindness, generosity and great care extended to him in his time of need.
Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home & Crematory
4600 County Line Rd., Racine (262) 552-9000
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