I only knew Russell as an Equestra neighbor and friend, but I miss seeing him decked out in eye-catching ensembles at our events, trying to return his tricky tennis serve and his overall presence. Even towards the end, when he was unable to bowl, he religiously showed up at the alley and rooted me on, like an impassioned cheerleader - always the competitor.

Russ was a good man and a good friend. My memories with Russ go back to the late 50’s. Sports, basketball, golf and skiing. Not to mention 8-ball in the basement of 41 Alpine Court. I tried to post a picture of Russ, Dave and me in March, 1969, just one week before I was inducted unto the USAF. We had skiied in NJ and ended up at a home on Lake Hoppactcong. Two years ago Dave and I visited Russ just after his lung transplant and tried to reenact that moment.
I so remember countless times in the basement at Alpinr=e Ct, Russ thumbing his 12 string guitar and I can never forget the kindness show n us by his parents. His mon would serve us the best grilled cheese with a slice of ham. We’d also be invited up to the cabin in Highland Lakes for a weekend.
My times with Russ were few and far between these recent years but I feel like I’ve lost a part of me. I did get to one of Russell’s backyard BBQs about 25 years ago. And I must mention our annual reunions at Dave Sorensen’s Sytte o Mai celebrations.
So much greater must the loss feel to Mary, Krista and Eric. Cherish the memories of this good man, friend, father and husband. My thoughts will be with you this afternoon during the Memorial Service and next week during the graveside service.