Russell "Gene" Platz

Russell E. Platz of Walkerton, passed into eternal rest in the late evening of Thursday December 18, 2025.

Gene was born January 24, 1931, in La Porte, Indiana to the late Ira C. and Edna L. (Hummel) Platz. On May 21, 1955, he married the love of his life, Jewel Parks. They shared 69 years together until her passing on January 26, 2025. He was also preceded in death by his son, David L. Platz and daughter-in-law Dona Platz.

Gene proudly served his country in the United States Air Force during the Korean Conflict. He was a skilled Cement Finisher and took great pride in his work. He was a member of the Plasterers and Cement Masons Local 692. He was also a member of the American Legion Post 365 and the VFW Post 1954 both in North Liberty.

In his younger years he enjoyed visits to the State Park to watch birds and walk the trails with Jewel. They also enjoyed going to Bluegrass Festivals and visiting Jewel’s family down in Kentucky. He enjoyed telling stories, crossword puzzles and having a “snort of Old Crow” every now and then. He loved spending time with his family and was especially fond of his grandchildren. He also loved going to VIP Day at school for several of his “adopted” grandchildren through the years.

Gene is survived by his children; Gail Platz, Patricia Koch, and Shelly Platz (Craig). He was the proud grandpa of Heather, Le Anne, Chad (Sally) and Mitchell. Great Grandpa of Gabriel, Lexia, Carson, Payton, Brantly and Ben. Great-great grandpa to Atalie.

Friends may visit with the family on Friday, December 26, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., in the Hanley and Sons Funeral Home-Walkerton Chapel, 1216 Roosevelt Road, Walkerton, IN 46574. A funeral service celebrating Gene’s life will be held on Saturday, at 11:00 a.m., in the funeral home with visitation one hour prior to service time. Following service, he will be laid to rest next to his wife in Westlawn Cemetery of North Liberty, with military honors. Memorial contributions may be made in Gene’s name to V.F.W Post 1954, 66992 Tamarack Road, North Liberty, IN  46554.

The Hanley and Sons Funeral Home-Walkerton Chapel is handling arrangements and extends our deepest sympathy and heartfelt prayers to all of the Platz family and friends. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Russell "Gene" Platz, please visit our floral store.