A Christmas baby, he was born December 25, 1953 in Fontana, CA to Kenneth & Dorothy (Olson) Kay. He graduated from Kearny High School in San Diego in 1972.
Russ’ talents were many. He was an accomplished carpenter, building anything from furniture to houses; an excellent driver, as shown by his work driving semis, delivery and fire trucks, and most recently hotel shuttles at the El Conquistador in Tucson. Russ spent time as a 9-1-1 dispatcher, which eventually led him to a long and successful career as a firefighter. He started as a volunteer for the North Highline Fire District in 1986, and retired as a Captain after nearly 30 years, and many exceptional crew meals later. In what little spare time he had, you would find him with an instrument, singing in a barbershop quartet, or at a local theater playing some unforgettable characters such as Ethel Merman and Goat Man.
Russ is survived by his mother Dorothy Olson, his wife of 30 years Teresa Kay, daughter Kendra (Dean) Fuller, son Corey Kay, sisters Debra (Alan) Kay, Colene (Frank) Garcia, Eileen Kay, Tamra Lemoncelli, and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. Russ was preceded in death by his father, Kenneth Kay.
Russ will be remembered for his humor and storytelling, his compassion towards his family and friends, and he will be missed greatly in the kitchen. There will be a celebration for Russ at his Tucson, AZ home on April 28th at 1 PM, as well as on June 8th at the Burien Actors Theater located at 14501 4th Ave SW, Burien, WA 98166 at 1 PM.
Russ had a tradition on the opening day of a performance; he would wear a Hawaiian shirt for good luck. In honor of Russ, the family would love for those attending to wear a Hawaiian shirt for Russ’ Final Act.
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