Russell Kinzinger

HANNA CITY – Russell R. Kinzinger, 95, of Hanna City, IL passed away Tuesday, January 30, 2024, at Kountry View Assisted Living in Hanna City.  He was born on November 3, 1928, in Washington, IL, to Roy and Barbara (May) Kinzinger. Russell was married to Barbara Linn from 1954-1956.  He then married the mother of his children, Joyce Lamb in 1962.  They divorced in 1980. Russ was married to Karan DeKraker from 2002-2009.  All three wives preceded him in death.   

Surviving are his children, David (Jackie) Kinzinger of Peoria, Lisa (Randy) Massey of Hanna City and Bryan Kinzinger of Clearwater, FL; Two step-daughters, Cindy (Jim) Green of Lake Zurich, IL, and Cheryl (Brad) Bjerke of Metamora; Fourteen grandchildren, Adam (Alex) Kinzinger, Alexandrea (Jake) Todino, Jennifer (Brad) Henz, Samantha Massey, Jessica (Paul) Karstensen, Olivia Massey, Myranda Massey, Addison Massey, Skylar Kinzinger, Slayde Kinzinger, Kurt Green, Jake Green, Alex Bjerke, and Lauren Bjerke along with four great grandchildren, Emma, Carter, Henry and Hazely.  Russ was also preceded in death by his brother, Robert Kinzinger of Chillicothe, and sister, Frances Volk of Washington, IL.

Russell was a United States Navy veteran and served in WWII. 

He retired in 1981 from Hiram Walker and Sons Distillery after 30 years. Russell owned and operated the Owl’s Nest Tavern in West Peoria from 1980 to 1996.  He established three other businesses in Peoria, KAT Amusements, Owl Darts, and several Darts ‘N Pool retail outlets throughout the Midwest.

Russ was a member of Elks Lodge #20 in Peoria, the Izaak Walton League of America, and the Illinois Liquor Association for many years.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, February 18th from 12pm – 3pm at the Owl’s Nest Tavern in West Peoria.

Knapp-Johnson Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Morton is handling arrangements. 

To leave an online condolence for the family visit www.knappjohnson.com.