Russell Hill

A 1948 graduate of Webster City High School, Russ attended St. Olaf College before serving in the U.S. Navy from 1952 to 1958 as a Lieutenant JG and Frogman, earning multiple honors. He went on to earn his law degree from the University of Iowa in 1959, beginning a distinguished legal career that included roles as San Diego, CA district attorney, private attorney, Municipal and District Court Judge, and ultimately U.S. Bankruptcy Court Judge.

Russ was a man of many passions — woodworking, photography, and long-distance running among them. He was a lifelong Rotarian, traveling for service work around the world, and to Slovakia to help draft bankruptcy laws. An adventurer at heart, he crisscrossed the country on his Goldwing motorcycle, taking his final ride to Alaska and back at age 82.

Family was his greatest joy, and he was a fixture at his children’s and grandchildren’s events. He will be remembered for his sense of humor, his big laugh, boundless curiosity, and the way he showed up — fully and wholeheartedly — for the people and causes he loved.

Russ is survived by his wife of more than 40 years, Karen Hill; five children; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren; and many extended family members and friends.

A visitation will be held Friday, August 15, 2025, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Urbandale, Iowa, followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital.