Russell Don Weldon, 84, of Oskaloosa, passed away on Sunday, September 27, 2026, at the Mahaska Health Hospice Serenity House.
Russell, son of Archie “Jack” and Daisy (Frost) Weldon, was born on November 29, 1941, at the family home in Bussey, Iowa. He attended Lovilla School and graduated with the class of 1960. Following his education, Russell began driving truck for Monroe County. He was united in marriage to Judy Jones, and to this union two children were born, Jim and Rachelle. They later divorced. Russell later began his career with John Deere in Ottumwa, Iowa, where he worked for 30 years before retiring in 1995. He also drove a milk truck route on weekends, picking up milk from bulk tanks and delivering it to AE in Des Moines.
On December 31, 1991, Russell was united in marriage to Karen Claypool in Oskaloosa. Russell and Karen made their home in Oskaloosa until 2001, when they began splitting their time between Oskaloosa and Florida. In 2015, they became full-time residents of Lake Wales, Florida. Russell was a member of the Skunk River Rods Car Club, the Masons, Za-Ga-Zig Shrine, Marion County Isettas, the Elks, and the American Legion.
Russell had a lifelong passion for cars. He especially enjoyed rebuilding street rods and eventually opened his own business, Weldon’s Wheels, where he rebuilt cars and golf carts and created customized vehicles.
He also enjoyed hobby flying. Russell held his pilot’s license and spent many enjoyable hours flying with friends and cousins from the Lovilia airstrip, exploring Iowa from the air.
Russell and Karen shared a deep love of dogs. Russell always had a dog throughout his life and especially loved his Shih Tzus.
He also loved entertaining others and enjoyed DJing for parties and weddings. During his years in Florida, Russell enjoyed serving as an activities director. Russell was a people person who took pleasure in watching and visiting with those around him. Above all, what mattered most to him was spending time with his family and friends.
Russell is survived by his son, Jim (Dominique) Weldon of Ottumwa, Iowa; daughter, Rachelle (Scott) Vande Haar of Oskaloosa, Iowa; stepdaughter, Kendra (Steve) Heaton of Oskaloosa, Iowa; grandchildren, Colton Weldon of Leon, Iowa, Casey (Katie) Weldon of Bondurant, Iowa, Amanda (Tyler) Hunt of Oskaloosa, Iowa, Alex (Andrea) Heaton of Sigourney, Iowa, Lake (fiancée Jessica) Heaton of Oskaloosa, Iowa, Cory (Beth) Sheeley of Oskaloosa, Iowa, and Zach (Jose) Sheeley of Des Moines, Iowa; along with several great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Archie “Jack” Weldon and Daisy Cade; his wife, Karen; stepdaughter, Krista Vandekieft; grandson, Jordan Heaton; and great-granddaughters, Ann and Maya Sheeley.
As was his wish, Russell’s body has been cremated, and no services are planned at this time.
Memorial gifts may be made to the Mahaska Health Hospice Serenity House.
Russell will be remembered for his love of family and friends, his passion for cars and flying, his love of dogs, and his enjoyment of bringing people together.
