He had the absolute nerve to be a wonderful father and grandfather and leave them all feeling incredibly bereft. His wife of 42 years, Emily, will miss his cheerful, easy-going company, and the way he used to sing to her when they danced. She loved him so much that she will even miss his terrible jokes and near-constant requests for snacks. His kids, Norse (Cicely) , Joel (Jillian), and Rhiannon (Corey), will miss him crying at the drop of a hat and laughing at inappropriate times. His 5 grandchildren, Jordan, Tyler, Marley, Kailyn, and Cypress, will miss his sweet smiles and unwavering love and support.
Russ was happiest when he was playing with the kids, fishing, and spending time with the family. Also when he was eating black cherry ice cream or over-cooked potato chips, drinking occasional shots of Yukon Jack, and watching professional wrestling. Despite dropping out of college and wasting his parents’ hard-earned money, Russ loved to learn and share what he knew. It seemed like he knew a little something about everything. Though towards the end he had trouble speaking, he delighted his wife with his perfect memory of family history and knowledge of all the answers on Jeopardy. He could never seem to finish a project around his own house, but would drop everything to help someone else remodel theirs - happy to help with anything from painting to plumbing and anything else that needed to be done. He could do it all.
Russell’s family will be forever grateful for the memories of a generous, funny, and always loving man. A gathering to share memories and honor his life will be held at the Lord’s New Church, 1725 Huntingdon Rd., Huntingdon Valley, PA on April 20, 2024 at 3:00pm.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia:
https://give2.chop.edu/give/241805/
