Russell "Russ" Albert Pollak

Russell Albert Pollak, 69 of Mahtowa passed away on Wednesday October 14, 2026 at Essentia Hospital in Duluth with his family by his side. He was born June 2, 1957 in Duluth MN to Raymond and Joyce Pollak. Russ graduated from Barnum High School in 1975. He married Kari-Joy (Johnson) on April 26, 2003.

Russ was employed as a heavy equipment operator for many years and numerous companies, the last one being with Shaffer Construction. He was a member of the International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 49. He was always busy doing something.

In his retirement years, he enjoyed welding, working in the shop, gardening, spending time in the woods and being the “MacGyver of Mahtowa.

Russ was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Joyce (McNeil) Pollak. He is survived by his loving wife, Kari of 23 years; his 2 sons, Chad (Katie) Pollak and Tyrell (Laura) Pollak; eight grandchildren; one great – grandchild; siblings, Daniel Pollak, Constance (Kurt) Langhorst, and Barb (Danny) Jobe; along with many nieces, nephews, and friends; we can’t forget his loving and faithful dog Chet.

Per Russell’s request, there will be no funeral held. A celebration of life will be held for him at a later date.