Daniel William Russell

Daniel (“Dan” or “Danny”) William Russell was a Halloween baby, born October 31, 1955, to Gloria (Ward) Russell and Daniel Joseph Russell in Orange, New Jersey as the third of four children and the youngest son in their Irish Catholic family. Dan was a man of great love, generosity, faith, and charisma, with an unparalleled sense of humor.

Growing up, Dan was often described as funny, and even mischievous at times, by his close friends and siblings. He grew up playing all sports, including track, baseball, and basketball, and his true love for sports continued throughout his life. Dan graduated from South Brunswick High School and headed south to the University of South Carolina, where he was a member of the Lamda Chi Fraternity, majored in accounting, and became a devout Gamecocks fan, which would continue throughout his life. While in college, he also met his lifelong companion, Cheryl (Penninger) Russell, and they were married in July 1981. Soon after, Dan and Cheryl had their two daughters, Rebecca and Gillian, and lived in many places throughout the southeast before they ultimately landed in Palm Harbor, Florida, where they raised their daughters.

While Dan began his career in accounting, he discovered early that he had a gift of connecting with people, crafting a compelling message, and developing lasting relationships, which led to a long, successful career in sales. Over his career, he worked at large companies such as Lee Jeans, Fila, and Disney, but particularly made his mark at Nike, where for nearly 20 years he played a pivotal role in developing the apparel sales division in Florida. He spent his years at Nike with many dear friends in a vibrant, athletic culture, while clothing many a family member, teaching staff, neighbor, and friend with Nike samples. Finally, Dan ended his career working with his lifelong friend and brother at American Athletic Track and Turf.

Dan carried his athleticism into his adult years as a talented golfer and true competitor, winning numerous tournaments and setting the loftiest of goals for himself. He remained active throughout his life and cherished time spent playing golf, swimming, scuba diving, boating, fishing, competing in races, and later playing tennis and pickleball with his children and grandchildren. He was also a man of many talents. While he loved watching and playing all sports with family and friends, he could also belt out your favorite rendition of a song or hit the dance floor with some serious moves. He was the loudest in the cheering section when his daughters, and later his grandchildren, hit any field or any stage. Dan’s best day would be spent captaining a boat with his family in tow. He was a master in pulling his daughters on a set of water skis, and later teaching his grandchildren how to steer, no matter their young ages.

Dan was special to all that knew him. He was the life of the party, but also the most kind, introspective, and generous soul. Dan’s companionship with Cheryl, his lifelong friendships from childhood, and his devotion to his daughters and grandchildren are a testament to his character and a life well lived. His infectious energy was unmatched and his mere presence, that could fill any room with love and laughter, will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Dan is survived by Cheryl, his daughters Rebecca O’Dell (Jeff), Gillian Leene (Brennan), grandchildren, Evan O’Dell (14), Miles O’Dell (11), Collins Leene (8), and McKinleigh Leene (5), and two sisters, Gail Austin (William Joseph (“Joe”)) and Janet Norton (Mike). Dan was predeceased by his parents and his brother, Paul.

Services will be held on February 7 at 10am at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church in Tequesta, Florida, with a celebration of his life, including lunch and storytelling, to follow. If you would like to make a memorial contribution, please consider a donation to Selfless Community Missions.