In the early morning hours of September 17th, 2024, with a harvest moon illuminating the sky, dancing with the northern lights, Russell “Russ” Badgett, 63, passed peacefully into the presence of his Savior, Jesus Christ. For the past 4 1/2 years, he fought a hard battle with renal cell carcinoma, always maintaining a positive outlook and his hilarious wit. His journey was a testament to his resilience, continually inspiring his family, friends, and medical team with his remarkable ability to heal and overcome the challenges of the disease.
Russ had a deep love for trucks, cattle, his dogs and his family and friends. He owned trucks and trucking companies throughout his life, demonstrating his passion for the open road. With countless miles behind him, he could about drive a truck in his sleep, covering the entire continental U.S. in his long career.
Russ was born on November 14, 1960, joining his parents and two brothers, Robby & Ron. His growing up years were filled with adventures, riding bicycles, which were later upgraded to motorcycles. He had many pets, even bringing home a pet calf once. He enjoyed hunting, trapping, fishing, ice skating, cruising with his buddies and farming with his dad.
In June 1992, Russ met his wife, Lani, at the grain elevator in Broadview, where she had recently transferred with General Mills. He had spent many years in that elevator helping his Uncle Paul and Dad load trucks and box cars, never imagining he’d meet his match there. Russ and Lani were married in February 1993, and he became an instant dad to Cory and Zach. Lani’s dad once told him, “Raise those two boys like they are your own. Don’t ever let them know any different.” Russ met that challenge, becoming the best father those boys could have. In March 1996, the family was complete when Brandon was born. He truly loved being a dad, teaching his boys how to survive anything life would throw their way.
Russ loved his family and took great joy in being “Bopa” and “Pop-Pop” to Hensley, Aliyah, Rowan, and Everett, with a 5th grandchild arriving in December of this year. Russ had countless journeys throughout his life, but his true journey was always rooted in the love for his family, friends and community—we will miss your fun sense of humor, your kindness, and your knack for making even the most serious moments a little lighter.
Russ is preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Faye.
He is survived by his wife Lani; sons Cory (Chantee), Zach, and Brandon; his grandchildren; brothers Robby (Barb) Badgett and Ron (Deb) Badgett; among numerous nephews, nieces, brothers-in-law, and sisters-in-law, as well as countless friends that he considered family.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests any memorials be made to the Russ Badgett Memorial Fund, which will be established to help families in need of medical expenses for out of state treatment or second opinions. A cause that meant a lot to Russ, as a way of giving back to all the people who helped his family these last few years.
A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 21, 2024 at Heights Family Funeral Home & Crematory, 733 W. Wicks Ln, Billings, MT 59105. Interment will follow in the family lot at Broadview Cemetery. A reception will follow at The Nelson Shop, 13921 3rd St., Broadview, MT 59015, it will be a potluck style reception, please bring a side dish.
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home has been entrusted with Funeral Arrangements.
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
11:00 a.m.
Saturday September 21, 2024
Heights Family Funeral Home & Crematory
733 W. Wicks Lane
Billings, Montana 59105
Interment
Immediately Following the Funeral Service
Saturday September 21, 2024
Broadview Cemetery
16067 Cemetery Rd.
Broadview, Montana 59015
Reception
Following the Interment
Saturday September 21, 2024
The Nelson Shop
13921 3rd St.
Broadview, Montana 59015
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
11:00 a.m.
Saturday September 21, 2024
Heights Family Funeral Home & Crematory
733 W. Wicks Lane
Billings, Montana 59105
Interment
Immediately Following the Funeral Service
Saturday September 21, 2024
Broadview Cemetery
16067 Cemetery Rd.
Broadview, Montana 59015
Reception
Following the Interment
Saturday September 21, 2024
The Nelson Shop
13921 3rd St.
Broadview, Montana 59015
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Ann Brehm says
I am so sorry to hear this. He was a true friend to Robert. RIP Rusty.
Wade and Diana Brown and Family says
We are so very sorry to hear of Rusty’s passing. I know he will be missed.
Rhonda Davis (Banks) says
Rusty was a character! He had a way with words and was hilarious even as a small child. He’ll be missed!
Beth Petro says
Russ was so much fun to visit with. I enjoyed hanging out with you all when I lived in Broadview. I’m thinking of you all. Take care.
Becky Schilling says
We were privileged to know Rusty for quite a few years. He was a very good man and had a great sense of humor. We lived across the street from his and Lani’s house. One evening we noticed a small red light bouncing around our living room. It was Rusty with a laser! There were other memories which we will always treasure. RIP our friend. You will always be in our hearts
Lori Stiner says
To the Badgett family. My heart is with you at this time. Rusty was my true friend since toddlers. He was encouraging, faithful and funny. We were all blessed to have his stories and personality to remember. Rest In Peace my true friend.
Kathy and Bert Stiles says
SO sorry for your loss Lani and family. Our prayers are with you all 🙏🙏
Al & Sue Sandbak says
Your courageous walk has kept us going. Thank you Rusty.
Lani, may God give you the strength you need.
Cy Jamison says
From all of us in the Jamison family we were shocked to hear of the passing of Russ. May he rest in peace. Cy, Linda, Madison, and McKenzie.
LaVerne Ivie says
Rusty was the guy that always generated a laugh and NEVER was there a dull moment around him. He will be missed in our community.
Marie (Krause) Lehfeldt says
During my time as a music teacher in Broadview, I remember Rusty as the “cutest little guy”! The mischief shone through those sparkling eyes and freckled face. You were a spark of life as a young boy, Rusty…..and as your wife described to me recently, a pillar of strength as an adult. I will always remember you as that cute little sprite and am honored to have been a small part of your life. My condolences to your family and my blessings to you, as you are now at peace with the Lord and without your earthly pain.
Robin (Haugrud-Gackle)Hartman says
My heartfelt prayers for the loss of such an amazing man and friend. Russ always had my back. He was a wonderful person and will be greatly missed. Love, Hugs, Thoughts, and Prayers always.
Melody A Bilden says
Russ had an infectious smile and laugh. Was always fun when we’d pass on the highway and he would talk your ear off on the CB. Prayers for his family, men like Russ are a blessing to have in our lives.
Cindy Stanton says
Oh Rusty….I am so very sorry to read this. I don’t remember how we met, way back in the day, and I haven’t seen you since sometime in the 90s at an anniversary party out in Broadview, but I remember your kindness, wit and sense of humor well. May God give your family peace and comfort during this difficult time. Thank you for being part of my early life.
Joe nichols says
I am so sorry to hear of russ passing. Knew him for many years. He an I drove trucks together in the oil patch and fed ex. He was a loyal friend. I will miss him in my life. He was one of them friends that you didn’t have to see or talk to everyday to have him come with just a phone call. He would be there when you needed him. I’m so sorry for everyone’s loss if Helen’s to you like he meant to me it’ll be a life long whole in your hart. By buddy