Help Fulfill Russell Hook's Final Wishes

I am Joyce Dorrell, cousin and friend to Russell Hook and executor in finalizing his affairs and arrangements.

Russell passed away Christmas Eve 2024, leaving many loved ones, and very little funds. He lived off of Social Security and a small amount of disability that covered his monthly bills, and not much else. Russell has left a written request to be cremated if possible, and his ashes spread near a Pine Grove near his home in Minnesota. I also hope to spread some of his ashes in Missouri, where he was born, near his mother's grave.

Typically not one to ask for help,

I am in desperate need of help to pay for the cremation. I have found they can cost up to $4000, but after researching his area, I am confident I can find a cremation service for around $3000.

I already will have the expense of travel to clear out his belongings from his apartment in Crystal, Minnesota. I am raising a family and not made of money, so any help paying the funeral home will be greatly appreciated.

I cannot access his apartment to clear it out until I have his body released to a funeral home, and pay for their services, so time is of the essence.

If you knew Russell, called him a friend or family, and can spare anything, it will be greatly appreciated. Thank you, and God bless.

Russell Wayne Hook , son of Gerald Gene Hook and Barbra Kay Simmons-Hook passed away Christmas Eve December 24th 2024.

He was born September 23, 1964 in Warrensburg Missouri. He grew up in the country outside of town, always looking out for his younger brother Darrin Hook (deceased,) having supper on the table when both parents would get home from work. He graduated Warrensburg High School in 1982. He spent many of his younger years working for Stahl Specialty Co. and was a member of the bowling league. He loved taking hikes, traveling with his two favorite cousins, camping and enjoying bin fires.

Russell spent the later half of his life living in Minnesota where he immersed himself in the church choir and spending time with his adopted family the Varhols.

Russell had a larger than life sense of humor and was always ready for an adventure. He was rarely seen without a good book to read and his smile was the life of the party as his laughter was contagious. He loved to sing, and performed often throughout his life.

He is survived by his niece Cassie Hook and her two children as well as many cousins.

Russell is missed by all who knew him well.

I will add updates to his FB page, and here as well.