Russell Edward Hintz

Russell Edward “Russ” Hintz, 76, of Mitchell, Iowa, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, June 21, 2026.

Russ was born on July 9, 1949, in Chicago, Illinois, to Harold and Dorothy (Smith) Hintz. He graduated from Osage High School in 1967 and later attended the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy, graduating in 1971. On October 10, 1971, Russ married the love of his life, Dorene Bower, at Faith Lutheran Church in Mitchell, Iowa.

Russ dedicated nearly four decades of his life to law enforcement. He began his career in 1971 as a police officer in Stacyville before joining the Osage Police Department in 1974. He later served as a Deputy Sheriff with the Mitchell County Sheriff’s Office from 1977 until his retirement in 2009. Throughout his career, Russ earned the respect of his colleagues and the communities he served through his dedication and commitment to helping others.

Russ found his greatest happiness outdoors. He was an avid hunter and fisherman who cherished time spent in nature. Many of his favorite memories were made along the river with his son, Bryan, where countless hours were spent fishing, hunting, and enjoying each other’s company. He also enjoyed spending many weekends camping with his wife, Dorene, alongside longtime family friends, creating memories and friendships that lasted a lifetime.

Above all else, Russ was devoted to his family. His grandchildren were truly his pride and joy. He rarely missed an opportunity to attend their sporting events, celebrate their accomplishments, or spend time with them hunting and fishing. Russ treasured every moment with his grandchildren and took great pride in the people they became.

In his later years, Russ enjoyed gathering with friends for morning coffee at the Kountry Kupboard, where laughter, conversation, and friendship became a cherished part of his daily routine.

Russ is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Dorene Hintz of Mitchell; his children, Jennifer (Brian) Fangmeier of Osage, Bryan Hintz of Nora Springs, Amy (Gregg) Halbach of Osage, and Brad (Katherine) Dunshee of Osage; his grandchildren, Jayden (Kathryn) Fangmeier, Rachel Fangmeier, Katelyn (Malachi) Halbach, and Ashley Halbach; his sister, Karen Norton (Saron Sutton) of Rudd; and many extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Harold Hintz; his mother, Dorothy Neumann; his stepfather, Robert Neumann; his stepmother, Lucille Hintz; and his brother, Randy Hintz.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at Osage Cemetery in Osage, Iowa. Following the service, family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Osage Public Safety Center, 432 Main Street, Osage, Iowa.

Russ will be remembered for his dedication to family, love of the outdoors, and the countless lives he touched throughout his years of service and friendship. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished and the memories that will forever be held close by those who knew and loved him.

Hoff Celebrations - Champion Chapel of Osage is assisting the family with arrangements