Richard A. Russ, age 73 of Salem passed away at his home on Thursday, April 14, 2022. Richard was born on December 19, 1948 in Joliet, IL the son of Frank and Mary Lou (Fry) Russ. He married Cheryl Heckleman on September 18, 1971 in Gardena, CA and she survives in Salem. In addition to his wife Cheryl Russ, he is survived by three children, Tina Kadar of Salem, Debbie Smith and husband Curtis of Salem, and Michael Russ and wife Lauren of Chicago; six grandchildren including Stefanie Holsapple and husband “J.C”, and Katrina Brown and husband Drew; five great-grandchildren; and four sisters, Linda Evans and husband Mike, Sue Ehrsam and husband Rick, Diane Bartholomew, and Karen Russ and Bob Nowak. He was preceded in death by his parents. Richard retired after many years of work as a Chef for Crossroads Community Hospital in Mt. Vernon. He served in the United States Navy, enjoyed woodworking, cooking, and Cubs baseball. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Crouse Funeral Home in Salem is assisting the family with arrangements.