Service Information
Russell Harvey Koester, age 67, of Stewart, formerly Glencoe, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, June 11, 2025.
Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Obituary
Russell was born on October 10, 1957, in Glencoe, Minnesota, to Harvey and Margaret Koester. A proud graduate of Glencoe High School, he continued his education at Wilmar Votech before answering the call to serve his country. Russell served honorably in the United States Navy for four years, demonstrating his dedication and love for his nation.
On November 9, 1985, he married the love of his life, Barbara Ann Telecky. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.
Russell worked as a partsman at Wacker's for 10 years before continuing his career at Arnold’s of Glencoe, where he dedicated 27 years of service. Known for his resourcefulness and creativity, he loved tinkering with projects, supporting his family in their passion for horse shows, and spending time with those he held dear. A fan of NASCAR, classic westerns, and war movies, he also enjoyed playing cards and sharing stories with family and friends.
A former member of St. Pius Catholic Church, Russell is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 40 years, Barbara Koester; his children, Aaron Telecky, Amy Blowers (Joshua), Emily McDonald (Ryan), and Erich Koester (Jordan); and his grandchildren, Oliver Blowers, Riley Blowers, Ryker Koester, Eliana Koester, and Brinley McDonald. He is also survived by his siblings, Gary Koester, Cathy Dodd (Bill), Ron Koester (Deb), Mary Battcher (Mark), and Paul Koester (Sandy); and his mother, Margaret Koester.
Russell was preceded in death by his father, Harvey Koester, and his parents-in-law, Roger and Virginia Telecky.
"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted."
— Matthew 5:4
jim kraemer says
R.I.P. Harvey, thanks for the fun memories.
Kathleen Ann Block says
Barb, Sorry for your loss! You have my deepest sympathy!
Mary Bielke says
Sorry to the family for there loss
Brenda & Kevin says
Barb and family..
Extending our sympathies to your families. Prayers of peace be with you. Hugs…
Deb & Dean says
Barb & family, sending sympathy and prayers of comfort to you. Thinking of you during this difficult time.
Betty Schroeder says
My sympathy to the whole Koester Family! A sudden loss like yours is so hard to accept.
Becky, Scott, Austin, Shelby & Taylor Lang says
Barb & Family
You are in our thoughts & prayers. Lots of great memories of being at the McLeod County Fair and getting parts at Arnold’s.
May the “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.
Sheila Marvan says
Barb and family, so sorry for your loss.
John and Sheila Marvan
Tami Alsleben says
Barb and Family,
So sorry to hear about Russ – he was always a hoot at work and I enjoyed working with him.
Kathy Berghuis says
So sorry for your loss Barb. Thinking of you.
Brad & Bonnie Hahn says
Our deepest condolences to you and your family. May God watch over you. RIP Russ.
Justin Shaul says
The world is a lesser place without him. My condolences to Barb and the family.
Josie says
Barb and Family
So sorry for you loss