Russell Jay Klempel, 64

Russell Jay Klempel, 64, of Aberdeen, ID, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2023 at Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center, causes due to a lingering illness.
Russell was born May 12, 1958 in Pocatello, ID, the son of Gustav Howard and Joyce Ann Ruff Klempel.
Russell spent his lifetime in Aberdeen, where he attended school. He graduated from Aberdeen High School with the class of 1976. He continued his education at Idaho State University in Farm Business Management.
On Nov. 16, 1979 Russell married LaNell Andersen in American Falls. Though the couple eventually divorced, they remained great friends.
In his younger years, Russell and LaNell raised polled Hereford cattle. Besides owning his own farm and ranch, he had also worked for various farms and ranchers. He bought a butcher shop in 2000, Klempel’s Fancy Kuts, in Aberdeen, which he ran for many years.
Russell enjoyed teaching grandkids life skills and lessons, tinkering with small shop projects, riding motorcycles and working with cattle. Most of all, he loved gathering with his friends and family.
Russell is survived by his children, Katie (Shane) Garcia of Aberdeen and Justin (Heather) Klempel of Pingree; his son-in-law Christopher Todechiney; Carlos Carrillo; his mother Joyce of Vista, CA; grandchildren Daniel Todechiney, Gabriella Garcia, Joseph Todechiney, Hunter (Lilian) Cook, Aubrie Klempel, Jayda and Sophie Kitchen, Kynzlee and Flint “Russell” Klempel and great-granddaughter Melissa and one great-granddaughter on the way. Brothers Donald (Tina) Klempel, Vista, CA and Kelly (Debbie), Creswell, OR; dear friend Dawn; and numerous uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins and many great friends that are considered family.
He was preceded in death by his father Gustav Klempel and father-in-law Dean Andersen as well as other uncles and aunts.
Celebration of Life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 14, at the Mennonite Church in Aberdeen. The family will meet with friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 13, at Hawker Funeral Home, 132 S. Shilling Avenue in Blackfoot, and again one hour prior to the service at the church.
In lieu of flowers please send contributions to Donor Connect at https://www.donorconnect.life/contribute/.