Russell Nels Pallesen

1960 - 2020

Russell Nels Pallesen, age 60, passed away peacefully at home in Chicago on Monday, December 21st, 2020 after a courageous battle with ALS.

Born on February 18th, 1960 and raised in Marcus, Iowa, Russ graduated from the University of Iowa (1981) and Harvard Law School (1985). He was an accomplished attorney who led private equity practice groups at several major law firms. Russ was also an investor and entrepreneur with thirty years of extensive experience in creating and financing successful startup ventures across multiple industries. Outside of work he was a beloved community leader who was passionately involved in the expansion of safe and affordable youth football in the City of Chicago, impacting the lives of many.

Preceded in death by his father, Gerald, and his mother, Velma (nee Hamilton), Russ is survived by his wife Kathy (nee Boedeker), sons Alex and Andrew, stepson Kyle Boedeker, two brothers Reginald and Gregory, sister June, extended family, and countless lifelong friends.

An infectious personality with a penchant for storytelling, those who knew Russ best will remember him for his love of music, travel, and skiing. He was proud of his Iowa roots and was a lifelong supporter of the Iowa Hawkeyes.

Never one to back down from a challenge, Russ carried his eternal optimism into his fight against ALS. Although he eventually succumbed, his family promises to keep up the fight for faster progress and access to therapies until a cure for ALS is found. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Russell Pallesen Memorial Fund at Mass General.

To donate and learn more about Russ's journey visit: https://because.massgeneral.org/campaign/russell-pallesen-expanded-access-for-als/c307754.

Friends and family will be invited to a memorial service and celebration of life event at a to be determined future date.

Info: 847-675-1990 or www.donnellanfuneral.com.