Russell Gerald Scott, 68, of Milan, IL, passed away at the University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics in Madison, WI, on Sunday May 1, 2016 after a lifelong battle with diabetes.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 am on Thursday at St. Patrick Catholic Church, Andalusia.  Visitation is 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at the Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, Rock Island, where a rosary will be recited at 3:30 p.m.  Memorials may be made to St. Patrick Catholic Church, Andalusia.

Russ was born in Davenport, IA to Richard Thomas and Ann Jeanette Doner Scott on February 8, 1948.  He married the love of his life Beth A. Boone on December 20, 1969.

Russ attended Rock Island High School, graduated from Augustana College, and earned his M.B.A. from St. Ambrose University.  He was the first male nurse to graduate from St. Anthony's School of Nursing, going on to work for many years at St. Anthony's, Franciscan, Trinity, and Mercer County Hospitals as a nurse and later as an administrator.  He loved music and was the lead singer for many local bands.  He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and a charter member of the Milan Lions' Club.  Russ served on the Board of Education at Rockridge High School where he was also an assistant softball coach.  He loved his faithful furry companions and his meticulously- planned and manicured gardens.  He was a member of the St. Patrick Catholic Church where he was actively involved in many areas of service.

Despite all of his professional accolades, Russ' greatest accomplishment was his family, and he created a legacy that will continue for generations.  He was a big brother, a proud father and grandfather, and a loving husband.  Russ was a cheerleader at his children's activities and events, guiding them beyond youth into adulthood by offering words of wisdom and experience that will be forever cherished.  He nurtured his grandchildren, always looking forward to their visits and discussions, his heart ever expanding.  He actively loved and encouraged his wife, fostering a strong partnership with her and helping her to realize what an amazing woman she is.  His happiest times were when the Scott Clan gathered.

Russ is preceded in death by his parents and leaves behind his wife Beth; daughter Megan, Milan, IL; son Patrick (Ellen), Batavia, IL; daughter Susan (Katie Hultin), Chicago, IL; son Christopher (Emily Burns), Pittsburgh, PA; and grandchildren, Austin Chandler, Lucas Thieme, Hugo and Fiona Scott; brother Rick (Teri), Pearland, TX; sister Roxianne, Des Moines, IA.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to:  The many professionals at UnityPoint Trinity Medical Center in Rock Island, IL and the University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics in Madison, WI, Father Anthony Co for his friendship and spiritual guidance, and the family of the organ donor who gave us an extra eighteen years of valuable time with our father, grandfather, husband, and brother.

Please consider organ donation.

Online condolences may be left at wheelanpressly.com.