Russell Doane Obituary

Russell Doane

May 27, 1931 - August 24, 2025

On August 24, at the age of 94, Russell Charles Doane passed away at home, surrounded by family and friends. He was born to Raymond and Verna (Bylander) Doane on May 27, 1931, in Menomonie, Wisconsin. He had one younger brother, Richard. Russell grew up in the town of Spring Brook and graduated from Dunn County Aggie in 1948. After graduation, he farmed with his father.

On September 4, 1953, Russell married Nancy Stratton. They spent 71 years together building a life of love and hard work, dedicated to their family and farm in the town of Spring Brook.

Russell Doane was a true icon in agriculture; a man whose curiosity and intellect shaped not only his own life but the lives of those around him. Known for his pioneering work with the dark red kidney bean, Russell's contributions to farming were both innovative and enduring. He believed deeply in the power of learning and research, from the development of seed to in-field techniques and processing advancements, and he wanted to test it all.

Dark red kidney beans were Russell's passion. He founded Chippewa Valley Bean to help other growers produce and market their beans. He can be credited with setting the standard for high-quality beans in the global canning industry. His vision and leadership transformed the way kidney beans were grown, valued, and shared with the world.

A lifelong farmer, Russell's love for the land was matched only by his love for his family. He was grateful that they all lived close, and he cherished every moment spent together. His home was a haven not just for family but to many friends that became family. He also loved animals and was not above adopting stray cats; he adored his family's pets and made sure the squirrels were always fed.

Russell was endlessly curious, always reading, always asking questions, always seeking to understand more. His intelligence was quiet but profound, and his presence was a steady source of wisdom and warmth.

He also had a deep love for cars, especially antique models from the 1940s to the early 1960s. His collection was a reflection of cherished memories-replicas of vehicles he once owned or dreamed of owning in his youth. Each car told a story, just like Russell did.

Respected by his friends and neighbors, Russell was someone people turned to for advice and insight. His thoughtful guidance and generous spirit made him a pillar of his community. Russell leaves behind a legacy of innovation, compassion, and deep-rooted love-for his work, his family, and the world around him.

Russell is survived by his children, Cindy (Bob) Brown, Ruth Anne (Darryl) Hofland, and Brian (Jenny) Doane; his grandchildren, Charles Wachsmuth, Marcus, Stephanie, and Alexis Doane; and his great-granddaughter, Claire Wachsmuth. He is also survived by a wide circle of extended family and dear friends, including Jay Belden, Kevin Bipes, Bob (Joyce) Wachsmuth, their children, Brent (Dawn) Wachsmuth, Dawn (Marq) Spusta, and grandchildren.

Russell was preceded in death by his wife, Nancy; and their son, Mark John; his parents, Raymond & Verna; his brother, Richard; and his in-laws, Milton and Emilie Stratton.

Special thanks to care-givers Mackinzie Greenwald, Hailey Wellner, Sara Cardwell, Martha Stratton, David Moore and James Pullen.

Please join us as we honor his life on October 25, 2025, from 2:00 to 5:00 PM at the home that he and Nancy loved. Please call 715-495-9928 for the address.

Memorials can be made to the Forest Center Cemetery Association or the Menomonie Free Clinic.