In Loving Memory

Dr. Russell Raymond Kania

July 26, 1938 — September 13, 2026

Dr. Russell Kania lived with purpose, curiosity, generosity, and an

abiding faith in the potential of others. A devoted husband, mentor,

educator, entrepreneur, athlete, and counselor, he made a lasting

difference in the lives of the people around him—not only through his

professional accomplishments, but through the encouragement,

wisdom and practical support he offered so freely.

Russ died peacefully on September 13, 2026 at his second home in

Silver Spring, Maryland, following a long journey with dementia. He was

surrounded by the love and care of his wife of nearly 55 years, Dr.

Jessica Bailey-Kania whose ambitions he championed throughout their

marriage.

To those who knew him, Russ was an independent thinker with strong

convictions, a generous spirit, and a gift for helping others see what

they were capable of achieving. He supported students, colleagues,

friends and loved ones as they pursued their education, careers, and

dreams. His legacy lives on in the many people he mentored and

encouraged and most deeply in the life he shared with Jessica.

Russ lived a long and meaningful life shaped by hard work, educational

pursuits, athletics, travel, real estate development, entrepreneurship,

and enduring relationships. Over a professional career spanning

approximately six decades, he was first ordained as a Catholic priest

and after leaving the priesthood, served as Assistant to the Vice

Chancellor at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, as a school

psychologist with Milwaukee Public Schools, and as an investor in real

estate. Following his retirement in 1998, he devoted himself to his

commercial real estate business in Florida.

Russ was born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where he

developed the determination, discipline and independence that

characterized his life. He was a gifted lifelong athlete who excelled in

swimming, tennis, biking and handball. As a young man, he was named

Most Valuable Player when his parish CYO basketball team won its

championship. He later became an excellent tennis player and won a

state championship in mixed-pairs competition.

Russ’ commitment to education and service was central to his identity.

At the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, he met his coworker Jessica

in 1969. They married on December 4, 1971 beginning a partnership

that would span nearly 55 years.

Russ encouraged Jessica to complete her Ph.D. and supported her

professional growth and self-actualization throughout their marriage.

He believed in her abilities and encouraged her to pursue opportunities

wherever they led, even when her aspirations required her to live in

Paris and work in different cities across the United States.

His generosity extended to many others. From 1974 until his retirement

in 1998 Russ and Jessica opened their Milwaukee home on North

Downer Avenue to international University students. Many remained in

the home until completing their education. Russ became much more

than a landlord to them: he was a mentor, counselor and trusted

source of practical wisdom. Students sought his advice about their

studies, careers, and lives, and many continued to remember him with

affection long after leaving the Kania home.

Russ was also a successful entrepreneur and commercial real estate

developer. After retiring from Milwaukee Public Schools, he devoted

himself to his real estate business based in Florida. He approached his

work with the same persistence, careful judgment, and independence

that guided the rest of his life.

He was known for his strong opinions, generosity, and willingness to

help others. He believed in equality, education, and the importance of

allowing people to become everything they were capable of becoming.

He was especially proud of the accomplishments of those he mentored

and supported.

Russ celebrated his 88th birthday on July 26, 2026 surrounded by

people who loved him. Though his health had declined, he was awake,

happy and able to share in the celebration. His family will treasure that

final joyful gathering.

Russ is survived by his wife, Dr. Jessica Bailey-Kania, his brother, Greg

Kania, his niece, Renee Miranda, his grandniece, Taylor Thompson, his

nephew, Mark Kania and his wife Hannah, and his two grandnephews,

along with former students, colleagues, friends, and others whose lives

he touched.

After nearly 55 years of marriage Jessica remembers Russ not only as

her husband, but as the man who believed in her intellect, encouraged

her ambitions, and remained her companion through a lifetime of

change. His was a life of accomplishment, independence, generosity,

mentorship, and love. He will be deeply missed and gratefully

remembered by all who knew him.

We invite you to join us honoring Russell’s life on this dedicated webpage. Your condolences, stories, videos and pictures will be cherished by the family and provide comfort during this difficult time.

Care Entrusted to

Beltway Cremation Center

124 E. Diamond Avenue, Gaithersburg, MD 20877-5009

240-246-0400

www.BeltwayCremationCenter.com