Russell M. Lewis

Russell M. Lewis, age 67, of Staples, died on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at Lakewood Health System in Staples.

A celebration of life gathering will begin at 4 p.m., and conclude with a prayer service at 6 p.m., on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at Lind Family Funeral Home in Alexandria.

Russell Mark Lewis was born on June 24, 1958, to Clayton and Vivian (Freske) Lewis in Wadena. He grew up in Urbank and was baptized and confirmed at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Russell graduated from Parkers Prairie High School in 1976. Following his education, he worked in construction before starting his own canopy business, which took him throughout the United States. In his free time, Russell loved playing music. He performed with several different bands over the years and, following retirement, even started one of his own. He also enjoyed the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. Known for his funny stories and playful sense of humor, there was never a dull moment when Russell was around.

He was preceded in death by his father Clayton Lewis; brother Bryan Lewis; and girlfriend Kim Maland.

Russell is survived by his mother, Vivian Lewis of Alexandria; son Dylan Lewis of Eagle Bend; three step-children, Kayla Thoennes of Brandon, Jeff Hendershot of Dalton, and Josh Hendershot of Evansville; three grandchildren, Derek, Emma, and Charlie Johanson; sister, Tammy (Jeff) Meyer of Cottage Grove; nieces, Trish (Jordan) Lewis Tichnell and Miranda Meyer; nephews, Jacob (fiancée, Jamie Glad) Lewis and Jeff Meyer; and a host of friends.