Charles Russell Garner

Charles Russell Garner, age 86, of rural New Canton, IL passed away on March 13, 2024, at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL. He was born on September 8, 1937, in Cincinnati Township of Pike County, IL, to Luther & June (Campbell) Garner. He married Shirley Diane (Davis) Garner on June 17, 1981, at her parents’ home in Payson, IL. She preceded him in death on October 28, 2022.

Russell graduated from West Pike in 1955 and went on to serve his country in the United States Army. In his early years, he worked for MFA and several other area grain elevators retiring from New Canton Grain & Fertilizer after 41 years. He also worked for his dad farming during many of those years. After retirement, Russell opened a shop in New Canton where he displayed his tractors and die cast toys, which he shared during special events sponsored by the town and county. In the mid 1980’s, Russell and Diane opened an ice cream shop in New Canton called the ’Mississippi Ripple’ with Ralph and Shirley Garner. He loved eating out, especially breakfast which was his favorite meal. He also enjoyed going for rides, taking pictures and spending time scrapbooking. Russell was a member of the New Canton Methodist Church and the New Canton Masonic Lodge, which merged into the Hull Masonic Lodge #910 A.M. & F.M.

He is survived by one grandson, Garett Garner of St. Louis, MO; brother, Ralph (Shirley) Garner of Quincy, IL; niece, Lisha (Shane) Fee; nephew, Craig (Penny) Garner; two step-daughters, Lisa (Scott) Martin of Troy, MO, and Jennifer Kabrick of Quincy, IL; step grandchildren, James (Beth) Martin, Eric Martin, Christine Skiles, Sam Kroner; great-grandchildren, Nick Martin, Violet Skiles, Kaylie Eisele; great-great grandchildren, Lila Collier and Grace Beelman; and special friends, Pauline Little and Christie Kirby and family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Luther & June (Campbell) Garner; wife, Diane Garner; and son, Scott Garner.

Masonic Service will be held at 10:30 AM, Saturday, April 6, 2024, at Niebur Funeral Chapel in Barry with funeral service immediately following. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM at the funeral home. Cremation rites have been accorded and interment will follow the funeral service at Shearer Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to be made to Shearer Cemetery. Online condolences may be left to the family at www.nieburfh.com. Niebur Funeral Chapel in Barry is handling the arrangements.