Russell Sensibaugh, age 85, passed away peacefully at his home on the farm on June 18, 2026. Russell was born on April 13, 1941, to Elmer Russell and Gladys Lucille (McKee) Sensibaugh.
He graduated from Frazeysburg High School with the Class of 1959. In 1960, the construction of Dillon Dam led to the relocation of his family from Nashport to Utica, a community that would become his lifelong home and the place where he would leave a lasting impact through his service, leadership, and friendship.
On February 15, 1963, Russell married his high school sweetheart, Hazel Sterling. Together they shared more than 63 years of love, partnership, and devotion, building a life rooted in faith, family, farming, and community service. Following Hazel’s passing just ten weeks ago, Russell’s family finds comfort in knowing they are reunited once again.
A lifelong farmer, Russell devoted his life to agriculture and the farming way of life. He was honored as the Knox County Young Farmer of the Year and was widely respected for his dedication to farming and stewardship of the land. His strong work ethic, practical wisdom, and willingness to help others earned him the respect and friendship of many throughout the community.
Russell’s commitment to his community was equally remarkable. He served on the Knox County Fair Board for 25 years. He was a founding member of the Utica Emergency Medical Service and an active member of the Utica Jaycees. His dedication to helping others earned him the Utica Sertoma Service to Mankind Award, recognizing his selfless contributions and commitment to improving the lives of those around him.
Russell was also well known throughout the region for his love of tractor pulling. He designed and built the renowned Eliminator tractor pulling sled, contributing to a sport he greatly enjoyed and helping create memories for countless competitors and spectators over the years.
Russell will be remembered for his strong work ethic, generous spirit, innovative mind, and unwavering dedication to his family, friends, and community. He was a man who never met a stranger and whose willingness to help others left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer Russell and Gladys Lucille (McKee) Sensibaugh; his beloved wife, Hazel Sensibaugh; and his sister, G. Sue Sensibaugh.
He is survived by his daughters, Marla Sensibaugh and Lee Ann (Tim) Joseph; his grandsons, Brad (Stacey) Atherton, Derek Atherton, Kyle (Michele Finkes) Atherton, Nick (Jenae) Joseph, and Alex (Lexi) Joseph; his 14 great-grandchildren; and his lifelong friend, John Rodeniser, all of whom held a special place in his heart.
Services will be held at the family farm shop, 16509 Kirkpatrick Road, Utica, Ohio 43080. Calling hours will be held from 4-7pm on Monday, June 22, 2026 and 10-11am on Tuesday, June 23, 2026 prior to the funeral service at 11am with Pastor Ben McKinstry officiating. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery. The family asks that those attending dress casually. Jeans and shorts are welcome—Russell would have wanted it that way.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Central Ohio, 2269 Cherry Valley Road SE, Newark, Ohio 43055.
Russell’s legacy lives on through the many organizations he served, the lives he touched, and the family and friends he loved so dearly. His example of hard work, service, and devotion to community will continue to inspire those who knew him. “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
To sign an online guestbook, please visit www.law-bakerfuneralhome.com.
Funeral Home: Brucker-Baker
Website: www.law-bakerfuneralhome.com