Ishpeming- Russell L. "Russ" Balconi, Jr., age 92, a longtime Ishpeming resident passed away Monday, December 21, 2020 at his home while in the loving care of his family and UP Home Health and Hospice.

Russell was born in Negaunee, MI on November 23, 1928, a son of the late Russell and Aline (Oster) Balconi.  Russ graduated from Vulcan High School.

Following high school he enlisted in the U.S. Army, and attended Michigan Technological University.  Russ started his mining career with Penn Mining Company in the mines (supervisor), worked for Joy Manufacturing and Champion Inc, and served on their Board of Directors in 1956.

Russ started the R. L. Balconi Co. Inc in 1972 and retired in 1992.

He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Ishpeming and particularly enjoyed cooking at the Men's Group breakfast.

Russ never met a stranger.  He enjoyed spending time at his cabin on Squaw Beach in Big Bay, being the hunting camp cook, fishing on Lake Superior and his secret river spots. He took many trips across Lake Superior, to Isle Royal and to the Huron Islands.  He brought many friends to fish at his cabin in Minnipuka, Ontario, Canada.  Russ spent 17 winters in Port Aransas, TX, having breakfast at Juan's Restaurant, followed by ocean fishing.

Russell is  survived by six children: Nancy Sundblad of Menominee, MI, Susan Restum of Milwaukee, WI, Rachelle Balconi of Albemarle, NC, Paul (Colleen) Balconi of Marquette, David (Kily) Balconi of Michigamme, and Debbie Wenzle of Iron Mountain,  Grandchilden; Amy (Evan) Haske, Tia (James) Olivier, Allexus Balconi, Brian Balconi, Elisa Balconi, Mary (Eric) Wortman, Erica Restum, David (Teal) Restum, Marja Balconi, Maiya Landry, and great grandchildren; Elin, and Else Haske, two sisters, Delphine Boos, Sue Hosang, two brothers, Daniel (Marilyn) Balconi, David (Lori) Balconi, and numerous nieces and nephews.  He is also survived by his longtime partner Karen Kilburn and her children; Gary, Lisa, Robyn, Bob, Nikki, and Brian, and their families.

Russ was preceded in death by his parents, wife Evelyn (Rivord) Balconi, son: Michael Balconi, brother James Balconi, grandson Aaron Sundblad, and his buddy Bill Sharon.

A private service will be held at a later date.

Interment will take place at Park Cemetery.

Russell's obituary may be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com.