Russell was a dedicated 1/72 aircraft modeler. He was one of a handful that models general aviation and airliners. Last autumn he worked hard to make the Bays Mountain Model Show come to fruition. Russell was also a walking encyclopedia of Star Trek and a living textbook on astronomy.
Almost every aircraft-adorned shirt I have came from Russell, as did many of my books. He could quote Ernest K. Gann and other aviation writers.
Russell was a good and loyal friend. We met some 15 years ago at Serious Hobbies; spent hours in my garage while I built my 1/32 ME 262; Finnish Buffalo; Hasegawa P-40 and many others, listening to Art Bell Coast to Coast AM and Phil Hendrie. He introduced me to the Aztek airbrush.
Russell watched my house while I was away. He took care of my pets. He and a telephone helped me keep alert while driving so many 1,000s of miles cross-country. He could recite High Flight.
Farewell, Russell.
Quoted Text
One More Roll
We toast our hearty comrades who have fallen from the skies, and were gently caught by God's own hand to be with him on High.
To dwell among the soaring clouds they've known so well before. From victory roll to tail chase, at heaven's very door.
As we fly among them there, we're sure to head their plea. To take care my friend, watch your six, and do one more roll for me.
— Commander Jerry Coffee, Hanoi, 1968.
Siderius
