Our friend and the father of Laura's best friend Lauren passed away from non-Hodgkin's lymphoma on December 26, 2017. Originally the family wanted to have the funeral on his birthday, January 18, but they decided instead to have it today to make it easier for people to attend.
The service was held at the Church for All Nations in Colorado Springs at 10am this morning. It was a beautiful celebration of Russ's life. People spoke of him with such enormous love and reverence. The most touching tribute came from his son, Kenny, who described Russ as "a great man" and "his hero". He said his father provided him with a sanctuary of safety and security during his childhood. On one occasion, Russ rescued a neighbor from an attack by pit bulls. All described Russ as immensely loving, easy-going, fun, funny, and wise, a man who always found ways to brighten the lives of the people around him. A co-worker, who knew Russ for 15 years, said he never heard him say a single derogatory word about anyone. Every speaker wept.
Diana, Russ's wife, celebrated Russ's birthday by bringing a wonderful cake to the ceremony, which we all enjoyed after the service. Then we were given balloons, which we released outdoors.
Russ was an unassuming, unpretentious man who clearly had a major impact on everyone whose lives he touched. He didn't strive for traditional greatness; instead, he beautifully enriched and illuminated the lives of those closest to him. He made the people who knew him happy. Who could ask to do more? Rest in peace, Russ, and best wishes to the beautiful family you leave behind. You will be missed. And you will live on in the way you inspire all who knew you.
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