Russell Lee Paetkau

Obituary

Russell Lee Paetkau, known to many as Russ, passed away on July 17, 2026, in Lowe Farm at the age of 57. Born on December 2, 1968, in Altona, to Cornie and Ellen Paetkau, he lived a life marked by devotion to his family, his faith, and the many simple pleasures that brought him joy. He will be remembered with love by all who knew him.

Russ was a man of steady presence. He was a Christian, and his faith was an important part of the life he lived and the values he shared with those around him. He was an active member of the Lowe Farm Bergthaler Church and spent the last 34 years serving on multiple committees. He believed in hard work, honesty, and showing up for the people who mattered most. These qualities shaped the way he lived each day and the way he cared for his family and friends.

Family was at the center of Russ’s life. He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Pearl, his daughter, Madyson, his son, Corey, and his daughter-in-law, Jessica. He took great pride in being a grandfather to Wren, Wyatt, and Raegan, and he treasured every moment spent cheering them on, encouraging them, and watching them grow. He is also remembered by his father, Cornie, and his brother, Trevor, who shared in his life and the many memories that will continue to be held close by the family. He is predeceased by his mother Ellen who passed last year.

Being connected to the farm was so important to Russ. He understood the value of long days, changing seasons, and the satisfaction that comes from honest labor. To his grandkids there was no better way to spend a harvest day than on the tractor with Grandpa.

Russ also gave generously of his time and strength through service to others. He was a volunteer firefighter with the Lowe Farm Fire Department for 20 years, a role he carried out with courage and commitment. Later, he had the special opportunity to serve alongside his son Corey, an experience that meant a great deal to him. Russ approached that responsibility with the same steady dedication that he brought to every part of his life, and his service will be remembered with gratitude by those who served with him and by the community he helped protect.

Over the years, Russ enjoyed many hobbies and interests that reflected his practical nature and his appreciation for skill, preparation, and time well spent. He enjoyed hunting and ammunition reloading, pursuits that required focus, knowledge, and care. He also found satisfaction in woodworking, where he could work with his hands and create something lasting. Most recently he had created closets for his granddaughters’ dolls, complete with their initials carved in them. He had an interest in cattle and took pride in the work that came with caring for them. In the kitchen, he enjoyed cooking with the Traeger, smoking meats and many other items. These hobbies were part of the life he built, and they brought him many hours of enjoyment.

In his younger years, Russ enjoyed playing sports, including baseball and curling. He understood teamwork, competition, and the fun that comes from being part of something bigger than oneself. He remained a lifelong sports fan and enjoyed watching professional games, especially the Jets and the Blue Jays. His loyalty to those teams was well known, but anyone who knew him understood that his greatest enthusiasm was always reserved for the sports his grandchildren played. He followed them faithfully and took sincere pride in every effort they made. He never missed a game and was always one of the loudest and proudest supporters in the stands. To Russ, there was no team more important than the one his grandchildren were playing on.

Those who knew Russ will remember his dependable nature, his love for his family, and the many ways he showed his care without needing to say much but never letting you cry alone. His life was one of commitment to the people and responsibilities he held dear, and his memory will remain a source of comfort to those who loved him.

Russell Lee Paetkau leaves behind a legacy of family devotion, hard work, and faithful love. Though he will be deeply missed, the memories he created and the example he set will continue to live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

The funeral service will be held Monday, July 27, 2026 at 2:00pm at the Morris MultiPlex.

There will be no public viewing.