Russell Dean Rae

Russell Dean Rae, 67, of Hiawatha, Iowa, formerly of Central City, Iowa, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at the Hiawatha Care Center, in Hiawatha. In agreement with his wishes, cremation has taken place. The family will greet friends from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, February 7, 2025, at Murdoch Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Marion, Iowa, with light appetizers served.

Survivors include his siblings, Mary Rae of Cedar Falls, Iowa, Susan Rae Powers of Marion, Iowa, Gail Rae (Larry) Blum of Marion, Iowa, David Rae of Hillsboro, Oregon, and Laura Rae of Chiang Mai, Thailand; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Ellen Rae; brother, Mark Rae; sister, Kathy Rae Murdoch; nephew, Brett Murdoch; and brother-in-law, Garth Powers.

Russell was born in Elinwood, Kansas, on September 15, 1957, to Harrison and Ellen (McCann) Rae. He graduated from Marion High School with the class of 1976. After graduating high school, Russell served in the United States Marines Corps. Following his discharge, he had a successful career as a carpenter, retiring in 2012.

Russell enjoyed his retirement in many ways, continuing to help friends and family with projects, traveling to Alaska, taking care of his stray cats, spending time with family, and especially spoiling his nieces and nephews. He was a true outdoorsman who loved to fish and hunt. Russell was a kind, trustworthy and generous man, who was loved by many and will be greatly missed. 

A special thank you to his caregivers at Hiawatha Care Center, who loved Russell like family.