Russell Lynn Johnson, age 74, of Sioux City, Iowa, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family. Services will be held on Monday August 4, 2025, starting at 11:30 a.m. at Waterbury Funeral Service, 4125 Orleans Avenue, Sioux City, Iowa. Visitation will be held one hour prior to service time at the funeral home. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery with Military Honors provided by the US Navy and American Legion Post 662. A luncheon will be held at the Bronson Bar after the interment.

Born on July 9, 1951, in Sergeant Bluff, Iowa, to Hugh and Margaret "Hollister" Johnson. Russell was the youngest of ten children. He graduated from Lawton-Bronson High School in 1969 and proudly enlisted in the United States Navy shortly after. Much of his service was spent overseas in Japan, where he met the love of his life, Setsuko "Yumi" Aoi. The two were married in Yokohama, Japan on August 3, 1973. They built a beautiful life together, raising two children, Sindy and Russell Jr., in Sioux City.

Russell had a heart for family and was happiest when surrounded by those he loved. Whether he was sharing stories, offering advice, or making his grandchildren laugh, family time meant everything to him.

He had a passion for Harley Davidson motorcycles, classic cars, and bicycles. Friday nights were often spent catching up with friends at the Bronson bar, a place filled with laughter, memories, and camaraderie.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 52 years, Yumi; daughter Sindy Varnadore; son Russell (Maggie) Johnson; and his beloved grandchildren Drake Varnadore, Quinn Johnson, Kellen Johnson, and Kaiya Varnadore. He is also survived by his sisters Betty Johnson, Margaret (Andy) Murine and Mary (Larry) Hieb, along with many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters Ethel and Dorothy; and brothers Leonard, Melvin, Marvin, and Richard.

Russell's legacy is one of love, loyalty, and a life lived with purpose and heart. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.  All memorial donations may be made to Waterbury Funeral Service.