Russell Nanik

Russell Stanley Nanik, age 87, of Staples, Minnesota, passed away on Friday, March 6, 2026.

Russell Stanley Nanik was born on June 6, 1938, in Wadena, Minnesota, to Joseph and Jessie (Pederson) Nanik. He attended and graduated from Staples High School as part of the class of 1956.

Russell met the love of his life, Janet Davis, at a barn dance. The couple were united in marriage on June 30, 1956, and were blessed with three sons Blaine, Craig and Joe. After marriage, they lived in Isabella, Longville, Oylen, and finally settled on his home place south of Oylen where he was raised.

Russell started a logging and sawmill business right out of high school. A few years later he built the foundation for his own construction business. He owned and operated Nanik Construction until the day he passed with no intention of retiring.

Russell enjoyed hunting, collecting guns, and collecting old/antique construction equipment.

Preceded in death by his wife Janet, parents Joseph and Jessie, brother Richard Nanik, sister-in-law Helen Nanik, and cousin James Nanik.

Deeply loved, Russell’s passing will be mourned by his sons: Blaine Nanik; Craig (Sue) Nanik; Joe (Brenda) Nanik, all of Staples, MN;  eight grandchildren: Josh Nanik, Lacey Dailey, Andrea (Blake) Mortensen, Justin (Tia) Nanik, Josie (Cody) Wing, Sarah Nanik, Chelsea Nanik and Evan Nanik; nine great-grandchildren: Hudsyn, Wyatt, Hunter, Adaly, Piper, Olen, Easton, Waylon, and Penelope (Poppy); many other relatives and a host of friends.

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