LODI - Russell T. Burhop, age 69, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, July 27, 2024.

He was born on August 14, 1954, in Milwaukee, WI, the son of the late Donald and Sophia (Thistle) Burhop and graduated in 1973 from Lodi High School.

Russ moved to Lodi from Milwaukee with his parents and siblings in 1968, when his parents took over the family business, then named Thistle’s Lakeside Lodge. He grew up on Lake Wisconsin, proudly water skiing, fishing and sharing in the fun that a lake life provided. It was in his childhood that his lifelong bond to Lake Wisconsin and Burhop’s Lakeside Lodge was forged. He moved to Illinois in 1977 and started a family with his first wife, Terri, and welcomed their first daughter, Jamie. Nearly 10 years later, he welcomed his second daughter, Erica with his second wife, Socorro. Russ took joy in his daughters and his time as a dad. He would spend his time building playgrounds or being a jokester with them whenever he could. Later in life, Russ was blessed with two beautiful granddaughters, Sarah and Bella, who gave him some of the best joy. He enjoyed keeping up with their busy lives and learning about them as they grew up. There was never a hug too tight for any of his girls.

Russ was the 3rd generation owner and operator of Burhop’s Lakeside Lodge in Okee, Wisconsin. He took over the family business in 1998 and reliably ran the business until his retirement in 2019. During his tenure as owner, he expanded the boat rental fleet to include pontoons, renovated all of the cabins himself and opened the bait shop. After his retirement, he stayed on property to mentor and continued to look over his home of over 60 years while his daughter, Erica, and her husband, Kauhane, took over the reins.

Burhop’s Lakeside Lodge was a job of hard work and passion. In sickness and in health, he never took a day off. It was not unusual for Russ to show up with a shovel and an extra set of hands for wherever he could help. He also offered his time to serve as President for the Lake Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce, sponsored local youth sports teams and stayed an active member of local Eagle’s Clubs. He was known for being a fearless waterman - helping boaters in storms and daunting scenarios without hesitation.

Russ found enjoyment becoming a ‘snowbird’ by living in Space Coast, FL in the winters. There he enjoyed fishing in the ocean with friends and soaking up the Florida sun.

Russell is survived by his daughters, Erica (Kauhane) Ray and Jamie Green; his grandchildren, Sarah and Bella Green; brother, Richard (Kathy) Burhop; sister, Sue (Phil) Smedema; and other relatives and many friends.

A gathering celebrating Russell's life will be announced at a later date.

The family requests condolences and memories be kindly sent to russburhopmemorial@gmail.com so the family can take time to gather cherished moments.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com

Gunderson Lodi
Funeral & Cremation Care
157 South Main Street
(608) 592-3201

Russell T. Burhop

August 14, 1954 - July 27, 2024

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