Russell J. "Bing" Grebner

Russell J. “Bing” Grebner, 88, of Metamora, IL, passed away on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at 5:13 am at Snyder Village.

He was born on April 29, 1938, in Metamora to John and Hildagard (Alig) Grebner. He married Nancy J. Gilliatt on September 5, 1959. She passed away on July 3, 2025.

Surviving are his children, Jeff (Kathy McGee) Grebner of Bloomington, MN, and Leslie (Matthew) Ernst of Wylie, TX; grandchildren Brett (Paige) Ernst and Ashley (Jordan) Prud'homme; great-grandchildren Sloane, Maeve and Truett Ernst, and Blakely and Jace Prud'homme, all of Wylie, TX.

Also surviving are his brother, Thomas Grebner, and sisters, Janet Ralser, Victoria Dietch, June Grebner, Susan (Norm) Waggoner, and sister-in-law Jean Grebner, as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and siblings Phyllis, Collette, John, Marvin, and Gerald.

Russ graduated from Metamora High School and Brown Business School. He served in the Army Reserves and worked as general manager of Metamora Woodworking until his retirement in 1991.

Blessed with a talent for fixing almost anything, he could solve problems with his hands and mind and could often be found doing so in his beloved workshop. Friends and family knew he could be counted on to use these skills, and it gave him much joy to help others.

He was a self-taught wood crafter, and built numerous model vehicles throughout the years, which were true works of art. He was an avid gardener, a wonderful cook, and a selfless caregiver to Nancy in her later years. He loved being outdoors, and caring for the land he and Nancy owned.

Above all, he will be remembered for his generosity and quiet kindness. He taught those around him the value of perseverance, craftsmanship, and taking pride in a job well done. His legacy lives on not only in the things he built but in the lessons he passed down and the love he shared with his family and friends.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A private graveside service will be held at a later date at St. Mary's Cemetery, with Fr. David Kipfer officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of the donor's choice.