Address
Locke on 4th
1519 W 4th St.
Waterloo, IA 50702
Funeral Service
August 13, 2026
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Locke at Tower Park
4140 Kimball Ave, Waterloo, IA
Visitation
August 13, 2026
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Locke at Tower Park
4140 Kimball Ave, Waterloo, IA
Memorial Donations
- May be directed to the family
Russell Lee Suhr, 73, of Waterloo, passed away on Sunday, August 2, 2026, at UnityPoint Health-Allen Hospital.
Russ was born on November 24, 1952, in Waterloo, to Elmer John and Leona Kathryn (Pint) Suhr. He graduated from Columbus Catholic High School in 1970 and went on to proudly serve in the United States Navy as a Seabee, earning the National Defense Service Medal. On May 25, 1973, Russ married Kathy Anne Ridgeway; they later divorced.
He worked at A & L Bakery and went on to work at John Deere in the early 1980s before the layoffs. He later spent 13 years at Criterion Manufacturing, working with his brother, Dale. Russ retired from Viking Pump in 2018 after 13 years as a machinist. Hunting and fishing were among Russell’s greatest joys and a meaningful part of his life, especially when shared with his son, John; his brother, Tobe; and his many buddies. He enjoyed making his own fishing tackle for shows and looked forward each year to his September fishing trip to Perch Eyes in Minnewaukan, North Dakota, near Devils Lake. A gifted bowler, Russ played in several leagues and tournaments, earning many wins and awards, including multiple 300 games and 800 series. Russ also loved working alongside his brother, Dale, and took great pride in being part of the Top Fuel drag racing team of the Orange Crate with driver Roger Lechtenberg.
In his 40s, Russ was diagnosed with congestive heart failure. The diagnosis gave him a renewed perspective on life and strengthened his determination to do everything he could to spend more time with his family and maintain the life he loved. Russ traveled weekly to Chicago for EECP treatments and remained deeply grateful for the care and support he received from his medical team. He also had a heart for helping others, especially his neighbors. In warmer months, he could often be found mowing yards, and in the winter, he was there to plow snow.
Following his divorce, Russ found love with his life partner, Kristine Wroblewski. What began as a new chapter became one of the greatest blessings of his life. Together, they shared 15 wonderful years filled with love, laughter, companionship, and unwavering devotion. They shared many interests and Russ loved going out with her to listen to her sing.
Russ was a true patriot who strongly supported veterans’ initiatives and his fellow comrades.
He is preceded in death by his parents, brother, LaVern (Joanne) Suhr, and sister-in-law, Kathleen Suhr.
Russ is survived by his son, John (Jill) Suhr; 3 grandchildren, Chloe, Carly, and Coby Suhr; life partner, Kristine Wroblewski; brother, Dale Suhr; and 3 nieces and a nephew, Bill, Lori, Raquel, and Angie.
I’m sorry for your loss.
Hi Christine
My condolences to you and Russ’s family.Russ was a good easy going man.Riss and Jim Marovets are out in a boat on LAKE HEAVEN fishing and reminiscing and talking about the good old days .
prayers for you and the family
I have great memories of Russ. Always kind. My parents often spoke of Russ when he would sit an visit with him when they were hospitalized. Sympathy an prayers for the family.
Mo and myself give our deepest heartfelt sympathy to you(John),Jill,grandkids,and Kristine. Mo held Russell in highest regards. Russell was his 2nd role model as a dad. To me a very dear friend . We will both cherish his friendship and love him forever. Thank you for sharing him.May he now be fishing and hunting daily. May your hearts feel his every day presence with your beautiful memories. RIP our forever friend,love ya.
Our deepest sympathy to Russ’s family and friends.
My deepest condolences to Russ’s family and especially to my dear friend Kristine. For 15 years, you loved Russ wholeheartedly and stood faithfully by his side through every challenge. You were his partner, caregiver, biggest advocate, and best friend. I saw your love and devotion, and I know he felt how deeply he was loved. My heart breaks for you, Kristine. May your beautiful memories bring you comfort in the days ahead. Rest peacefully, Russ. ❤️
My heart goes out to you Kristine also to his family and all who knew Russ as he left himself with each of us.
Dear Kristine, our sincere condolences to you and your husband Michael. Losing russ will be such a great loss for both of you
I’m so sorry for your loss Mike and Kristine.
I’m so sorry Mike and Kristine for your loss of Russ. He was a great guy. He will be missed.
I live down the street and was fortunate to finally meet the mysterious guy who would plow the snow on the front sidewalks on the whole block! He didn’t ask for money. He just did it out of the kindness of his heart. I waved him down one day to say thank you. I got to meet Kristine later on. I want Kristine and his family and friends to know that I am so sorry for their loss May God bless you and keep you. 🙏🏻