Russell A. Benko, born September 12, 1943 in Chicago, Illinois, a proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran of the Vietnam War, passed away on October 20, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents, Helen and Andrew Benko, and his son Brian, whose memory he carried in his heart every day.
Russell was a loving husband to Maureen (Kobetz) Benko for 59 years, a devoted father to Allison (Mike) Keeley, Bridget Benko, and Russell (Lynette) Benko, and a cherished grandfather to Brennan, Griffin, and Caroline Keeley; Michael, Nathan, Jillian, and Jack Dompke; and Patrick, Noah, and Julia Benko.
He is also survived by his sister, Geraldine Hunt, and countless friends whose lives he touched with his kindness and humor.
A faithful Catholic and lifelong Chicago sports fan, Russell was known for his generosity, loyalty, humor, and unwavering devotion to God and family. He never missed an opportunity to support, encourage, or laugh with those he loved.
A visitation will be held on Sunday, October 26, from 2:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Skaja Terrace Funeral Home, 7812 N. Milwaukee Ave., Niles, Illinois. Funeral Service Monday 9:15 AM going to St. Paul of the Cross Church, Park Ridge for 10:00 a.m. Mass. Interment St. Adalbert Cemetery.
Funeral info: 847-966-7302