William "Russ" Russell Peltier

Born on September 25, 1953, Russ (as he was known to family and friends) was the kind of person who could light up a room with a perfectly timed joke or an impromptu story. His sense of humor was legendary—wickedly funny, dry, and always delivered with a twinkle in his eye.

Russ had a natural gift for design and spent his career as an artist and graphic designer. A true creative wizard, he brought ideas to life with skill, imagination, elegance and humor. Whether he was working on a logo, layout, or quirky side project, Russ’s fingerprints were always unmistakable.

In his spare time, Russ was an avid ham radio operator. He also prided himself on his ability to consistently stay current on the latest technology. He always found great joy in the company of his family, surrounded by his beloved dogs, and behind the wheel of a sports car.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia Peltier; daughters Emily Peltier and Allison Gillam; Allison's husband, Graham; three grandchildren, Beckett, Gracie, and Thatcher; his sister Sunny Kellerman; Sunny’s husband Harry; and Russ’s cherished canine companion, Molly.

Russ leaves behind a family who adored him, friends who laughed a little harder because of him, and a legacy of creativity and humor that will not be forgotten.

He will be deeply missed and always remembered—with a smile.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his memory to the American Heart Association or the Small Miracles Cat & Dog Rescue in Ellicott City, MD.

A memorial gathering for family and friends will be held on Thursday, July 3 at 11:00 AM at the Witzke Funeral Home in Columbia, MD, with a greeting of guests beginning at 10:00 AM that day.