Russell E. Hibler

Danville – Russell E. Hibler, 97, of Danville passed away at 8:11 PM on Wednesday, October 15, 2025 at OSF Sacred Heart in Danville. He was born August 6, 1928 in Fithian, IL to Russell and Lois (Decker) Hibler. He was happily married to his wife of 61 years, Donna L. (Wonderlin) Hibler, on March 13, 1964. She survives.

Also surviving are four daughters, Lori Wood, Monica Bartman, Lois Burge, and Avis Haukoos; two stepchildren, Debbie (Terry) Toler and Steve Phillips; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; six siblings, Jim and Ronnie Hibler, Georgia Miller, Peggy Hanthorn, Betty Hale, and Wilma Miller; and one grandson.

At the age of 17, Russell served his country by enlisting in the US Navy where he served during WWII. During this time, he was stationed on the USS Hamul and the USS Johnston. Following his naval duty, Russell reenlisted with the United States Army Reserves, where he was once again deployed for a short time during the Korean Conflict. He remained a lifetime member of the VFW after leaving the service. Russell worked his entire career as a truck driver, both as an independent and as a member of the Local 26 Teamsters from which he retired.

He and Donna loved to travel in their motorhome and drove as far as Alaska. Russell was a die-hard Cubs fan which led to them spending six months over a twenty-year period living in Arizona during the Cubs’ spring training. He also loved to go fishing at Indian Springs where he was a member and enjoyed tinkering in his garage and working in the yard. Outside he loved to watch the birds and squirrels and take his beloved dog Tilly on scooter rides. In his later years, he liked to sit with Tilly while he played solitaire.

A service to celebrate the life of Russell Hibler will be held on 12 PM on Wednesday, October 22, 2025 at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 3940 N. Vermilion St., Danville, IL 61834. Pastor Patti Wise will officiate. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 11 AM – 12 PM on Wednesday prior to the service, also at Sunset in Danville.

Please join Russell’s family in sharing memories, photos, and videos of his life through his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.