Russell F. Marks

Russell Frank Marks, age 78, of Wautoma passed away early Monday morning, July 1 2024 at Theda Care Medical Center in Berlin.

He was born September 14, 1945 in Berlin, the son of Reuben and Violet (Woodworth) Marks. He married Judith “Judy” K. Thompson on July 11, 1964 at Mt. Morris Holden Lutheran Church.

Russ was a 1964 graduate of Wautoma High School. As soon as he was old enough he worked in the family business of Marks Bros. Pickle Co. Because being a farmer was what he always wanted to do, he carried out his dream by buying his own farm while still staying connected to the family farm and business. Russ loved the outdoors and enjoyed many years of gun and bow deer hunting, fishing, and snowmobile racing. He was a longtime active member of Mid-State Sno Drifters Snowmobile Club. Russ also belonged to the former Wautoma Jaycees and bowled on the Marks Brothers Bowling team. He was a member of Grace United Methodist Church in Wautoma. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Judith “Judy” K. Marks, Wautoma; two sons, Jeffrey Marks, Wautoma, Jeremy Marks, Omro; two granddaughters, Mackenzie Marks (Dalton Hahn), Omro and Megan Marks, Omro; two brothers, Gordon (Bernice) Marks, Wautoma, Arlon (Mary) Marks, Wautoma; one sister, Janet Smith, Wauwatosa; brother-in-law, Steve (Penny) Thompson, Copley, Ohio. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Russell is preceded in death by an infant daughter, Kay Ann Marks; his parents; daughter-in-law, Melissa Marks; brother-in-law, Carol Smith; parents-in-law, John and Marguerite (Hartford) Thompson.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, July 9, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Grace United Methodist Church in Wautoma with Rev. Stephanie Taylor officiating. Burial will be at Wautoma Union Cemetery. 

Visitation will be held on Tuesday at the Church from 9:00 a.m. until the time of services. The Leikness Funeral Home of Wautoma is assisting the family with arrangements.