Russel J. Krause

Russel John Krause was born on October 22, 1936, in Hankinson, ND, to Eric and Edna Krause. He passed away at Bethany Retirement Living on 42nd Ave in Fargo, ND, at the age of 88 on Friday, December 13, 2024. Russ was the 8th of 9 children, he grew up and attended school in Hankinson, ND, before moving to St. Paul, MN. Russ joined the Army in 1955, and he proudly served his country for three years. Russ played basketball and baseball while serving, and he chauffeured the higher ups while stationed in Japan. After the Army, Russ returned home and attended the St. Paul beauty academy. Russ met and married Valeria Wilm on June 7, 1958. Together Russ and Val have four children. They have lived in St. Paul, Sabin, Moorhead and Fargo. “Mr. Russel” was a cosmetologist for over 55 years where he made many lifelong friendships. Russ was a Knights of Columbus member, an avid bowler and his beauty salon sponsored his boys and son-in-law playing softball. He loved shooting pool, listening to Elvis music and spending time with his family and going to their numerous sporting events. 

Left to remember his life of kindness and generosity are his wife of 66 years, Val; and their children, Guy (Lori Sue) of Lake Park, MN, Greg (Lori Marjean) of Hawley, MN, Grant (Denise) of Moorhead, AnnaMarie (Kevin) Kern of East Grand Forks, MN; 12 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild, Ryan & Stephanie Krause (Hunter, Henry, Holden), Jacob Krause (Marek, Levin, Collins), Samantha & Charlie Aus (Lyla), Jamin Krause, Hannah & Joel Witthoeft (Emma, Chloe), Eric & Jennelle Krause (Taylor Krause & Ava Soucy ((Ivy)), Grace), Brandon Krause & Suzanne Beverley (Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Justin), Nicholas Krause & Annie Wevley, Logan & Sarah Kern (Arlo, Ophelia), Nolan & Nadia Robb-Kern (Willow), Katie Kern & Brandon Bachmann, Benjamin Kern & Ashley Carlson (Myrrah). 

He is also survived by his St. Joseph’s Church family; his brother, Ralph Krause; brothers and sisters-in-law; and his Bethany on 42nd family. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings; his parents-in-law, John & Florence Wilm; and several other family members. 

We would like to thank the Fargo VA, Hospice of the Red River Valley and Bethany on 42nd for their outstanding love and compassion. 

In lieu of flowers, any memorials given to the family will be distributed to organizations that benefit those in need. 

A Catholic Mass in Russel’s honor will be Friday, December 20, at 11:00 a.m., at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Moorhead, MN. 

A gathering of family and friends will be one hour prior to the Mass at church, and will continue with a meal immediately following the Mass. 

Interment will be at Hankinson Cemetery at a later date.