Russell D Banzhaf, age 66, passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, on Wednesday, August 23, 2023, at Bryan West in Lincoln, NE. He was a beloved husband, father, and grandpa to his three grandsons who meant the world to him.
He was born May 6, 1957, in McCook, NE to Darrel and Lucile (Harris) Banzhaf. He grew up in Cambridge, NE, with three sisters and graduated from Maywood High School in 1975. He met the love of his life, Dorris (Eubanks) Banzhaf, they were married February 20, 1976, and celebrated 47 years of marriage. To this union, two children were born: Dustin Wade and Lacey Renee. They raised their family in Indianola, NE and moved to McCook, NE in 2001. To not miss out on watching their grandsons grow, they moved to Lincoln, NE in 2017. He spent time farming with his grandpa and in 1976 was employed at Electric Hose and Rubber/Parker-Hannifan until he retired in 2014. Russ always thought his life was blessed with many roads traveled, a loving family, a warm home, and cherished friendships.
Russ had a passion for everything outdoors. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, enjoyed camping and kayaking, and loved instilling those skills upon others. He helped create the Republican Valley Bowhunter’s Archery Club. He was an instructor for Hunter Safety where he taught youth the safety of the sport. He completed a master naturalist course so that he could volunteer at Nebraska Game and Parks events, allowing him to share his love of these skills. He spent many years donating blood/platelets to the Red Cross earning many awards for his contributions to help others. He was passionate about his Huskers and Denver Broncos, and he took joy in watching his grandson’s baseball games and band activities.
Preceding him in death is his sister, Linda Banzhaf; grandparents, Paul (Velma) Banzhaf, Claude (Lottie) Harris; in-laws, Bob (Shirley) Eubanks.
Russ is survived by his wife, Dorris; son, Dustin; daughter, Lacey (Levi)Davis; and three amazing grandsons, Hunter, Brycen, and Wyatt; parents, Darrel and Lucile Banzhaf; sisters, Kathy Banzhaf, Gloria (Brad) Masoner; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and in- laws. He is also survived by the second love of his life and dog, Ivy. Russ knows that he is loved, had been loved, and will be deeply missed.
As Russ chose cremation, a memorial service is scheduled for 11:00 am, Friday, September 8, 2023, at McCook Christian Church, 507 West B St, McCook, NE 69001, officiated by Pastor Clark Bates. Visitation will be Thursday, September 7, 2023, from 10:00 am until 7:00 pm. Family will be present to greet friends from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm at Herrmann Jones Funeral Chapel in McCook. Friends may leave online condolences at herrmannfh.com. Memorial contributions may be left in Russ’s name at Herrmann-Jones Mortuary. Herrmann Jones Funeral Chapel entrusted with arrangements.