Obituary of Russell Lorn Ledwa, Sr.

Russell Lorn Ledwa, Sr., age 59, passed away suddenly on Wednesday, February 23, 2023 at Ascension St. Joseph Medical Center in Joliet. Born in Joliet on March 25, 1963 to the late Joseph and Dorothy Ledwa, Russell had been a lifelong Joliet area resident.  Russell had a love of anything with a motor. He was a skilled mechanic, working for years at his family’s business, Russ’s Auto Sales in Crest Hill.  When not working, he enjoyed dirt biking and boating.  He was also a member of the Painters Union, Local #33. His greatest love though was spending time with his young grandson Kenton.

Russell is survived by his son, Russell L. Ledwa, Jr.; his grandson, Kenton Ledwa; siblings, Robert (Ann) Ledwa, Wilma (the late Gary) Kirman, Dave Ledwa, Joseph (Sherry) Ledwa, Penny (Andy) Nathan, Ted Ledwa, and Richard (Rebecca) Ledwa; former wife and dear friend, Susn Guttillo; numerous nieces and nephews, and many good friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his brother Ron (Barbara) Beck; and lifelong friends, Jim Mutz, Ken Britnal, and Mike Mufich.

Russell was known for doing anything for anybody, without expecting anything in return. It gives the family comfort knowing his last act of kindness was as an organ and tissue donor.

All family and friends are invited to join in a celebration of Russell’s life on Friday, March 3, 2023 from 2-6 p.m. at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black (at Essington) Rd., Joliet., with a service to take place at 6:00 p.m. Interment will be private.

For more information, please call 815-741-5500, or to leave an online condolence, visit his Memorial Tribute page at www.fredcdames.com.