Russell L. Zenk,
76, Grand Marais, died Saturday, February 13, 2010 in St. Mary’s Medical Center in Duluth, surrounded by his family.
He was born February 24, 1933 to Francis and Lillie Zenk in Truman, Minnesota where he grew up and graduated from high school. He was also a graduate of the University of Minnesota with a degree in architecture.
Russell married Judy Bevan in 1956 and they raised their four children in Minneapolis. In 1984 he married Linda Humphrey and has made his home in Grand Marais since that time. As an architect he practiced in Minneapolis, London and Grand Marais, designing many churches, dental offices, homes, and also the Lake Superior Trading Post in Grand Marais.
He was a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church, and served for several years on the board of directors of the Cook County Economic Development Authority.
Russell enjoyed cooking, fishing, time with his family and friends, and playing with his yellow labs, Boris and Rusty.
Russell was preceded in death by his parents, and a brother, Harland Zenk.
He is survived by his wife, Linda; daughters, Ann (Ray) Croaston, Alison (Vern) Plant and Jessica Zenk all of Minneapolis; a son, Karl (Christine) Zenk of LaCrosse, Wisconsin; stepchildren, Eric Humphrey and Stephanie (Erik) Anderson of Grand Marais; grandchildren, Erin (Jorge) Tamaki, Alex Plant, Matthew and Emily Croaston, Zachary, Rachael and Rebecca Zenk, Riley and Connor Somnis, and Eli Anderson; and his sister, Lois Hall.
Services were held Thursday, February 18, 2010 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Grand Marais. Arrangements by Cavallin Funeral Home.
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