Russell Knoefel of Allen, Texas, passed away peacefully on April 5, 2026, at the age of 90.
He was born on September 27, 1935, in Cleveland Heights, Ohio, to Arthur Knoefel and Clara (Jaros) Knoefel. Russell grew up in Ohio and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, Ohio. He proudly served his country in the United States Army, an experience that reflected his lifelong sense of duty and commitment.
Russell married the love of his life, Donna Dobrovic, on April 29, 1967, in Cleveland, Ohio. Together, they built a life centered on love, family, and cherished moments for 58 years.
He dedicated his professional life to the insurance industry, where he worked as an independent commercial lines agent for 37 years until his retirement in 2008. His strong work ethic and integrity earned him the respect of colleagues and clients.
Russell was an avid reader and a devoted family man who was deeply involved in his children’s lives. He took great joy in being present for their milestones and activities. Holidays were always a special time in the Knoefel household, as Russell went out of his way to create meaningful and lasting memories for his family.
He was a passionate sports fan who cheered for the Kentucky Wildcats basketball team and the Ohio State Buckeyes football team. He was also a devoted member of Our Lady of Angels Catholic Church in Allen.
Russell will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle, brother-in-law, and friend. His kindness, dedication, and love for his family will leave a lasting legacy. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Russell is survived by his wife, Donna Knoefel of Allen, Texas; two daughters, Kelley Lucarell and husband, James of Sheffield, Ohio and Corey Schuler and husband, Christopher of Parker, Texas; grandchildren, Haley Lucarell of Mentor, Ohio, Christopher Schuler, Charlotte Schuler, and Claire Schuler, all of Parker, Texas; niece, Linda Sebrasky of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio; nephew, Kyle Knoefel of Carrollton, Ohio; and a host of other loving family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Clara Knoefel, and brother, Kenneth Knoefel.
The family will receive friends during a visitation on Thursday evening, April 9, 2026 from 7:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. at Turrentine Jackson Morrow Funeral Home, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas 75013.
A funeral service will be held at 1:30 p.m., Friday, April 10, 2026 at Our Lady of Angels Catholic Church, 1914 Ridgeview Drive, Allen, Texas 75013.
Following the service, Russell will be laid to rest at Ridgeview Memorial Park, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas 75013.