JONATHAN C. RUSSELL

1983 - 2017

Jonathan C. Russell, age 33, of Chicago, passed away Saturday, February 4, 2017. He was born September 23, 1983 in Park Ridge, the son of David Russell and Deborah (Toffel) Russell. Jonathan had a heart for God and passion to share the Word with others. He wanted to use his life experiences to reach other people. He was looking forward to getting involved with a church on a regular basis and he longed to serve others. Jonathan loved playing his guitar and writing music, which was very personal and raw as he shared his life's struggles. He was blessed with the gift of humor and loved making people laugh. Jonathan was the kind of guy that would smile and say "Hi" to everyone as he passed them on the street, and if you asked, he would give you the shirt off his back. He was unselfish in every way, never expecting anything from anyone. Jonathan loved his family and recently shared how he would make it a priority to pray for them every day. For those who had the honor of knowing Jonathan, you knew how much he struggled with his sobriety and how his true desire was to follow God. Even in his darkest moments, he still had faith and knew that someday he would be delivered and restored. Jonathan is survived by his parents David (Cheryl Lasek) of Zion and Deborah of Rockford; siblings Ryan (Cindy Warpinski) of Carpentersville, Danielle (James) Gowler of Elgin, and Joshua (Ashley Springer) of Rockford; nieces and nephews Leah, Emma, Andrew, and Ava Gowler and Timothy Russell; grandmother Judy Russell of Harrisburg; and many other beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. A memorial service celebrating Jonathan's life will be held Saturday, February 11, 2017 at 1:00 pm at Carpenter's House Community Church, 201 N. Kennedy Drive (Route 25, just south of Bolz Road), Carpentersville with Pastor Ed Leiskau officiating. A brief visitation will be held from 12:00 noon until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations would be appreciated and may be directed to the family in care of the Malone Funeral Home, 324 E. State Street, Geneva, Illinois 60134, payable to Danielle Gowler. Arrangements handled by Malone Funeral Home, Geneva. For information, call 630-232-8233 or visit malonefh.com.