Russell was the very first person who greeted us when we moved onto Prairie Peninsula, where he served as honorary Mayor and record keeper for the neighborhood. He had an extraordinary memory - like no one else I’ve ever known. We will miss his daily patrols, and most especially, his unforgettable chuckle at anything that tickled his fancy.
I have heard it said that your are blessed if you can claim to have one or two close friends. I was doubly blessed because Russ was one of those close friends. We met over 50 years ago as room mates at Grand Forks AFB. We introduced each other to our future wives and were the Best Man for our weddings. We shared a love for fishing and woodworking and spent many a summer evening at one fishing hole or another. Although our military careers separated us for periods of time, we always stayed in touch and found ourselves stationed close enough to allow periodic visits.
I am truly going to miss you Russ but know that we will meet again in our Father's heavenly home. Until then, rest in peace and find a good fishing hole to share.
Russell was my friend as well as my brother in Masonry and was loved by every member of my family down to my younger grandchildren. To see Mr. Russell for a few minutes at the lodge made their day. His constant thirst for knowledge led to many wonderful conversations we shared on our way home when we would ride together and I believe that he taught me more than I could teach him. May God be with his family and uphold them during this time.
