Russell Hill Obituary

Russell Joseph Hill, born on September 11, 1931, in Williams, Iowa, passed away on August 5, 2025. He left an indelible mark through his exemplary career in law and his unwavering commitment to his family and community.

A proud alumnus of Webster City High School, Russell graduated with the class of 1948, having been elected Senior Class President. He furthered his education at St. Olaf College from 1948 to 1952 and then attended law school at the University of Iowa, graduating in 1959. A dedicated and disciplined individual, Russell displayed his resolve not only in his professional life but also in his personal pursuits. He served in the United States Navy from 1952 until his honorable discharge in 1956 as a Lieutenant JG, earning the Korean Presidential Unit Citation as well as the National Defense Medal, along with several other accolades.

Russell’s professional journey was notable and distinguished. He began his career as a district attorney in San Diego, California, after which he worked with Karr & Karr Attorney at Law, followed by Lund & Hill Attorney at Law. He served as a Municipal Court Judge in Webster City, Iowa, and went on to become an Iowa District Court Judge in the 2nd Judicial District. His dedication to the judiciary culminated in his role as a U.S. Bankruptcy Court Judge for the Southern District of Iowa, from which he retired in 2008.

Russell's passion extended to woodworking and intricate scroll work, as well as photography. He cherished memories of participating in outdoor activities, frequently engaging in his love for running, which included getting up at 4 a.m. to run four miles daily and competing in the annual "Dam to Dam" race even in his 60s. An avid supporter of the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Steelers, he lived by principles of order and righteousness, believing deeply that “what's right is right” and that “everything has its place.”

He was an excellent family man, and enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren, serving as their enthusiastic cheerleader at their games, tournaments, and activities. His loud and supportive voice carried for all to hear, sometimes irritating the officials with his helpful tips. Providing laughter for the players, coaches, and the crowd.

Russell's travels included remarkable experiences as a missionary in Africa, the Philippines, and South America. He also notably traveled to Slovakia to contribute to the development of their bankruptcy bylaws and procedures. One of his most gratifying accomplishments was taking a final motorcycle trip on his Goldwing to Alaska and back at the age of 82.

Russell is preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Jennie Hill; siblings, Oliver, Phillip, James, Robert and Ruth.

Left to cherish his memory is his beloved wife, Karen Kay Hill; children, Holly (Mike) Nathan, Russell E. Hill, Andrea (Marlaine) Hill, Jennifer Hill, Alyson (Nathan) Miller; grandchildren Genevieve, Raphael, Chloe, Nataly, Taylan; great-grandchildren Aubrey, Gunnar, Hendrick, Rook and Luna; and great-great-grandchildren, Atlee, Adalie, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and close personal friends.

Russell Joseph Hill leaves behind a legacy of dedication, service, and love, inspiring all who had the privilege to know him. A visitation will be held at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, (8301 Northwest Aurora Avenue, Urbandale, IA 50322), on August 15, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 AM, followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m. Memorial contributions can be made to Blessman Ministries, Gloria Dei Lutheran Church and the University of Iowa Healthcare Stead Family Children's Hospital.