Husband, Father, & Friend

This on-line memorial was created in loving memory of Russell A. Staker, whose life is celebrated by this website.

Russell A. Staker, 70, of Peoria died at 8:28 a.m. Tuesday, November 13th, 2007 at this residence in Peoria.

He was inspiration as a husband, father, and friend...and we will certainly miss his smile...his laugh...and his unwavering support of us as a family.

He recently celebrated his 70th birthday, and we considered ourselves lucky to have shared 40 of those years with him as a husband, father, and friend.

Please sign Russell's guest book and let us know you came to visit. We will remember Russell forever.

Russ grew up in Pekin, Illinois.

His thirst for adventure landed him a job with Lucky Lee Lott's Hell Drivers...a world renown daredevil stunt car show.

Russ's contribution to the show was the 'Slide for Life'...a stunt that required him to be pulled behind a speeding car through a flaming field of gasoline...that was Russ's idea of fun!

His love of cars and excitement resulted in a long term relationship with one of his early favorite toys...a green MG.

Russ was listed in the Who's Who of Illinois in 1956.

Russ attended Pekin Community High School, and was an active member of the Pekin Chink community.

He later attended Bradley University in Peoria and graduated with a Master's Degree in Engineering.

He enjoyed making people smile and laugh, and never hesitated to poke fun at himself to get those smiles and laughs.

Russ and Sandy

Russ began his professional career at Keystone Steel & Wire, and then moved Laidlaw.

He then moved to Caterpillar Incorporated as an Engineer, and retired from there in 1999 with 28 years of service.

While at Caterpillar, Russ is credited with creating several innovation solutions that are still in use today.

Most notably, Russ was known as the 'Energy Czar' for his work in the energy management area.

He was a board member of the National Association of Miniature Enthusiasts, the Antique Dealers Association of Illinois, and affiliated with the Pekin Jaycees.

Despite all his personal and professional accomplishments in life, Russ was best known as the co-creator of Sandy's Lace & Trim. A business endeavor he shared with his wife, Sandy, for over 30 years.

His customers, suppliers, and friends will always remember his willingness to help those in need.

He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Sandy, and two children, Chris and Todd.

Little Lacey, Satin, & Buttons

He is also survived by Little Lacey & Satin, who will certainly miss him as well.

We know that he, Buttons, Muffins, and Lacey are all together again enjoying a bowl of ice cream.

He left the world that surronded him a much better place for all of us, and we are truly grateful for our time with a true gentleman, husband, father, and friend.

In lieu of flowers or cards, memorials may be made to the Humane Society.