Russell Raymond Franek, age 44, passed away at his home in Northfield on Saturday, May 23, 2026.Russell was born on July 5, 1981 in Faribault, MN to parents Glenn and Colleen (Kuchinka) Franek of Nort

Russell Raymond Franek, age 44, passed away at his home in Northfield on Saturday, May 23, 2026.Russell was born on July 5, 1981 in Faribault, MN to parents Glenn and Colleen (Kuchinka) Franek of Northfield, MN.We remember Russell for his magnetic charisma. His warm, beautiful, big smile that easily took over the room. His presence showed a quiet confidence and quick wit. There were always fun spontaneous and amusing remarks in our conversations that made us laugh. He had the ability to make you feel special. His hugs were the best. His spirit was warm and larger than life. He truly was a gentle soul.Russell’s true passion in life was music. He enjoyed listening to all genres and at age of 12 began teaching himself guitar by ear. This is where it all began, the love of performing live music. It did not matter if it was a living room, a back yard or a big stage, it was home to him. If you have ever been to one of his shows you know just how he could engage the crowd. When he sang his voice was resonant and unforgettable. He spent time in several bands over the years, Communication Break Down, Flatrate, The 8th Street Band, Harley and The Butcher, and most recently, Russ Franek and The Biscuits.Russell's true love and force for life were his children, Paige and Cooper. He deeply cherished his time spent with them. He shared his love of music, movies and sports with the kids making times full of memories. He was a very proud father who will undoubtedly be watching over from above.Russell's life was cut far too short but the impact he made to those he knew and those he loved will be felt forever.Russell is survived by his children, Paige and Cooper Franek; his parents, Glenn and Colleen (Kuchinka) Franek of Northfield; and his siblings, Lori (Tim) Freeland of Northfield, Rick (Stephanie) Franek of Faribault, and Mandy (Shawn) Hansen of Northfield. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews, Kayla (Tyler), Rylie, Alisha (Ben), RJ (Jacob), Seth, Madison, and Makena; his great-nephews, Charlie and William; and his great-niece, Lyla.He was preceded in death by his brother, Robert A. Franek; and his grandparents, Raymond and Lillian Franek, and Arnold and Elsie Kuchinka.Mass of Christian Burial for Russ will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, May 30 at the Church of St. Patrick in Shieldsville. Visitation will be held from 3-7 PM on Friday, May 29 at the Bierman, Benson, & Langehough Funeral Home of Northfield as well as one hour prior to Mass at church from 9-10 AM on Saturday,May 30. Russ will be laid to rest at the St. Patrick's Catholic Cemetery with a luncheon to follow.Arrangements are with the Bierman, Benson, & Langehough Funeral Home & Crematory. www.northfieldfuneral.com