Russell “Russ” Motyka, 75, of Huntley, passed away peacefully on December 26, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.
Russ was born on May 1, 1950, to Walter and Maria (Grana) Motyka. He graduated from St. Patrick High School. It was at a St. Pats sock hop that he met the love of his life, Margaret M. O’Donnell. The two were united in marriage on September 7, 1973. Russ went on to graduate from Northern Illinois University before embarking on a successful career as a Commodity Broker.
A man of remarkable energy and enthusiasm, Russ was always physically active, continuing to stay fit well into his later years. Just a week before his passing, Russ and Madge were dancing, as they always did together. He enjoyed downhill skiing, bicycle riding, racquetball, kayaking and pickleball embracing the fun and challenge these sports brought him. Known for his mission-driven attitude, once Russ set his mind to something, he gave it his all—100%.
In addition to his active lifestyle, Russ had an undeniable passion for the kitchen. He loved to experiment with new and challenging recipes, always pushing himself to create something delicious. As a devoted grandfather, Russ was 150% “Papa” to his beloved granddaughter, Maddie. He even built a climbing wall just for her, always finding ways to make her smile.
A true Renaissance man, Russ had many interests and talents. He enjoyed gardening, dancing, theater, pottery, woodworking much more. He lived each day to its fullest. Russ was a loving husband, father, Papa, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Russ is survived by his wife, Madge Motyka; his daughter, Rebecca (Michael) O’Dea; his granddaughter, Maddie; his sister, Reggie (Frank) Rundle; and many dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Maria Motyka.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, January 8, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a service at 11:00 AM ALL at Shepherd of the Prairie Lutheran Church 10805 Main Street, Huntley, IL 60142
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.
Russ will be remembered for his boundless energy, loving heart, and zest for life. His memory will live on in the many lives he touched.
Please leave a video condolence by entering your name and click the "Record" button below. You can always preview your video prior to submitting it. Please note that you may receive a prompt to grant DefioreFuneral access to your camera. This is only temporary and will be solely for the duration of recording your condolence message.
May your happy memories, give you peace and comfort during this challenging time ...prayers 🙏🙏🙏for you and your family kathy and richie
Russ was a great guy and a lot of fun. I found it always enjoyable being on the court with him, playing with or against, it didn't matter. While he will be missed, we should keep Madge and the family in our prayers.
Russ was a great friend. We did a lot together. Golf, Pickleball, Softball, Wine Club, and much more. I will miss him terribly, but cherish the memories.
Russ was a gentleman on and off the courts. He will be missed greatly.
Russ was a good friend and a person I looked up to. We will always have the family in our prayers.
I'm so very sorry to hear of Russ' passing. He was truly a gentle man and fun to be around. He will be missed by everyone who knew him but especially "onstage" . He was always ready to become whatever character he was asked to play and did it well. My deepest sympathy to you and your family. We will miss him on and offstage.
It's hard to imagine Russ with anything but a smile on his face, even when he was playing the part of a gun-toting gangster. His pleasantness and dedication to his endeavors will be remembered.
We are grateful for the friendship we shared with Russ. Our dear friend has touched our hearts and we will forever cherish his memory. We are grateful for the friendship we shared with Russ. Our dear friend has touched our hearts and we will forever cherish his memory.
So saddened to hear this news of Russ' passing. All of us here in our neighborhood will miss his smile and positive comments, no matter the situation. Whatever you need, Madge, please ask.
I am so sorry to hear of Russ’ passing. He was a great guy, always had good conversations at the gym and was envious of his workout regimen. God bless him and prayers to Madge and the family 🙏 Rich Ross
Thinking of you, Madge. May the beautiful memories you shared bring you some peace and comfort right now.
Rebecca and Mike. Heartfelt condolences to your family. May your dad’s memory be a blessing forever. With love, Faith
So sorry for your loss. Prayers and hugs
Dear Madge and Rebecca, So sorry for your loss. Fuss was always so friendly and kind. He will always be will you and watch over you. Send you love and strength during this difficult time.
Dear Madge, I am so sorry to hear this news. I’m pray God‘s grace will have you find some peace with the many precious memories you and russ have shared. Prayers to you and your family.
We will greatly miss the friendship we shared with Russ. Always a smile, a good word and a sense of humor. May you rest in peace while keeping a watchful eye on those you loved. We will cherish our many memories of you!
So sorry to hear this news. Many prayers for him and you.
Did not know Russ well but he was a fellow golfer in the "Roper Group". Played with him several times and remember him as a good guy and fun to be with. My condolences. He will be missed.
Madge, sending you my deepest sympathy and a big hug.
I knew Russ as a fellow member of the Roper golf group; always a good guy. My thoughts and prayers go out to his wife and family.
I knew Russ as a member of the Roper Group. I didn’t have the opportunity to play with him often but he was always a good guy. Friendly and upbeat. My condolences to the family.
We wish we had the right words, but please know you don't have to go through this alone. We're here for you - to listen, to help, or just to sit quietly whenever you need.
So sorry to hear this. He was such a nice man to be around. Alway kind, helpful and just fun to be around. Our prayers to family and friends.
Madge remember the lifetime of good memories with Russ, I'm sure there were many. I'll remember Russ as always smiling and fun to be around. Prayers for you and your family during this challenging time 🙏🙏🙏
Russ was always friendly and had a very positive outlook on life. Prayers for him and his beloved family!! He will truly be missed!!
I knew Russ from playing golf with him in the Roper Group on Mondays. He was always upbeat and had a smile for everyone. He will be missed by all.
I knew Russ from Pickleball. A truly nice man, both on and off the court. My condolences to the whole family.
Russ touched so many lives. We hope you find comfort in the memories you shared. “May the love around you bring you peace in the days ahead. Our sincere condolences to you and your family.
Russ was such a sweet and wonderful gentleman. Always smiling. His smile will be missed. Please know he will always be in my prayers, as well as his beautiful family.
My prayers go out to you on your family. I will not be able to attend the services because I am on trial. I will be there in spirit. Rest easy my friend.
Madge, I am so sorry to hear of Russ’s passing. My heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Russ was a very kind man and had a big smile. Sending many thoughts and prayers.
Russ was such a great guy while he knew him at St. Pat's. Always a smile on his face. Godspeed, Russ!
So very sorry for your loss. May all the memories you shared with Russ hold you until you see him again. Russ was a fun loving, good spirited gentleman who lived and loved large. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him.
Keith and I are so saddened by this news. We loved being with Russ at yoga, woodchucks, pottery, pickleball and social events. He will be missed by many. Madge-we care about you, and hope we will reconnect when the time is right. Sending love and happy memories to your family.
So sorry for your loss he was a very nice man
Russ was a wonderful man. He always had a good word and a smile for you. He will be truly missed!