Robert James Russell

Robert J. Russell, lovingly known as Robbie, was a man who loved his family, his friends, and anything that had to do with cars. He was fun, playful, and always appreciated a good prank. Robbie had a way of bringing laughter, mischief, and a little mayhem into the lives of the people around him.

One of the most important people in Robbie’s life was his dad, John P. Russell. His dad was his teacher, his best friend, and the person he shared so much of his life with. They worked hard and played hard together, building a bond that was much deeper than words can describe. His dad was his first best friend, and that relationship was one of the most special parts of Robbie’s life.

Robbie wanted very much to be buried with his dad. I am eternally grateful that his wish was able to come true and that they could be laid to rest together. After the special bond they shared in life, there is comfort in knowing they are together again.

Robbie had a true passion for cars. Like his dad, he loved searching for and collecting vintage car parts. He especially loved his Torino and his baby Bronco. Robbie had a special talent for keeping cars running long after they probably should have been! He loved helping people fix their cars and teaching others how to do the same. He also enjoyed going to car shows and building model cars, another way he could spend time doing something he loved.

Robbie enjoyed rock and roll music and had a playful appreciation for things that were a little inappropriate. He loved a good meal and the simple pleasures of life. He especially treasured watching movies with his little sisters and sharing a Coca-Cola when neither of them should have had one. Those little moments became special memories that will always be treasured.

Robbie loved his mischief and mayhem with his lifelong friends, especially Ian and Matt, and later Jamie. He and his friends shared plenty of adventures, including their hood ornament mischief, which became part of the stories and memories that made their friendships so special. Robbie had many friends who mattered to him throughout his life. While it is impossible to remember every name, each friendship had its own place in his story. The laughter, pranks, adventures, and memories they shared will always be part of the life Robbie lived.

Robbie also had a sentimental side. He saved cards, brochures, and other little reminders of places he had visited with people over the past 30 years. These things meant something to him because they held memories of the people he spent time with and the experiences they shared. Robbie understood that sometimes the smallest things could hold the biggest memories.

Robbie fought hard against the illnesses that challenged him. He faced struggles that he could not ultimately overcome, but his life was so much more than the disease he fought. He was a son, a brother, an uncle, and a friend. He was a car enthusiast, a teacher, a prankster, and a man who made memories with the people he loved. His strength and the life he lived will be remembered alongside the laughter and joy he brought to others.

Robbie is survived by his mother, Debra Deakin; and his siblings, John McKay, Suzanne McKay Peterson, Christina Russell, Jamie McKay, Jacklyn (Jackie) Russell Jones, and Shelby Russell. He is also survived by 13 nieces and nephews, along with many friends who were an important part of his life.

Robbie will be remembered for his passion for cars, his willingness to help others, his playful sense of humor, his sentimental heart, his many friendships, and the special bond he shared with his dad. The people he loved, the memories he held close, and the mischief and mayhem along the way will continue to live on in the hearts of his family and friends.