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Russell Mance Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Russell Mance
Sponsored by Doug Mance.
Laura Mance
September 27, 2022
Always in our hearts. So many wonderful memories.
Herman Boda
September 26, 2022
Russell, I look forward to our sharing humor again....... I have lots of new stories. See you around the corner.
Herman
Herman Boda
September 29, 2021
Russell, I think of you every now and then, and look forward to when we will share moments again.
Herman Boda
September 28, 2020
I still reflect on Russell and I bouncing jokes off of each other - it brings a smile.
Hank Barnes
September 27, 2020
R.I.P. Russell. Everyone who knew you remembers you and the great times we all had growing up In Chappaqua. You are not forgotten
December 12, 2016
Somehow, I was looking you up Russ, 30yrs later...just curious,
YOU where always an angel! Good Stand Up Man.!!
Sad to find.....you left us for a higher calling.
Love kellie
Herman Boda
October 3, 2014
Russ, I wll always remember our back and forth of telling jokes and the shared laughs.
Laura Mance
September 30, 2014
Five years since we lost Russell in our world but we really haven't lost him in all ways. We still remember him, quote him, and learn from him. He also taught us about depression and those we love who are challenged by it are taking better care of themselves. Thanks for that Russell. I think you also saved some lives. Love Always, Laura
Jessie Zugerman
December 27, 2013
Happy birthday Uncle Russ. I still miss you, of course, but you left an indelible impression on me that will last forever. Love you on this birthday and always....
Jessie Zugerman
December 27, 2013
Happy birthday Uncle Russ. I still miss you, but you left an indelible mark on me that will last forever. Love you on this birthday and always....
Jonathan Blauvelt
October 27, 2009
Although I didn't know my Uncle Russ all too well, I know what is most important. He always made me laugh and became an immediate presence when he entered the room. He was fun to be around and I always knew I was in for an adventure with Uncle Russ. As my brother, Chris, so previously mentioned, my favorite and most distinct memory of Russell was that Christmas Eve in the rain/snow mix and freezing temperatures that we best associate with Pittsburgh. We all put out luminaries on that night in the worst possible conditions. This memorable night resulted in the yearly tradition of putting out luminaries on Christmas Eve, no matter the conditions. Therefore, I will forever remember Uncle Russ because of this. Each and every day, I will think of Uncle Russell and will embrace my few yet special memories of him. Thank you Uncle Russ. We love you and will miss you.
Mike Hoffman
October 22, 2009
Russ and I began our collusion in August 1981. He put me up for a week and got me my first Tucson job (landscaping for the Evans Landscape Co.) We continued our conspiratorial efforts by becoming housemates for a time where we found the begionnings of our quirky common ground in the music and lyrics of "Uncle" Frank Zappa, Tom Waites, et al.
We were previously "linked" by our common matriculation at Paul Smiths College in the Adirondack Mountains where we never officially met, but found through our reminiscing to have attended the same "cultural" and "social" events.
So, my friend Russell, those who know me well will attest, we had much in common both in the world and in the most secluded places of our hearts.
In darkeness and in light, I remain forever your friend and companion on this journey without end...
... "shiver me timbers, I'm sailing again."
Toast!
Mike
Russ with grand niece Addison and best friend Roy
Douglas Mance
October 18, 2009
So Russ would probably ask, "are we done now?". Most of the people who wrote the amazing passages in this guestbook were at Brundog's Zye-De-Que last night or they called in. 70 or so of us circled on the patio under a warm Tucson sky and toasted the specific parts of each of us that Russ connected with. We marveled at how he had pulled very different things from very different people. We all concluded that that part of us was the part of Russell that we would continue to own. A his brother, I was so proud that I owned so many different parts of this complex and hilarious guy.
We raised glass after glass. Burly, proud construction people hugged and cried. Guys who went to school with Russ since kindergarten laughed and celebrated and told Russ stories. We ate chili dogs and Cajun smoked Spam. A corner was set aside for pictures, a lighted birdcage full of Yikes novelties and, letters and historic items describing the 1940 establishment of Mance Air Conditioning Corporation. Russ was very proud to be third generation HVAC, and many of his co-workers came to suddenly understand why he was so good at what he did. Did I mention that Clint Eastwood was there?
Our entire family reads the words on these pages often, and we thank you all for describing the parts of Russell Mance that you now responsibly own. There is no doubt that the challenging genius that was my brother has been recognized and treasured.
Thanks to you all for knowing Russ the way you did and for letting our family see your respect, your understanding and your love. You have helped us to heal, and we see that the memories of Russell Mance will live within us and will be carried forward by each of us.
So I guess, for the time being Russ, we're done now. But we will miss you...
Thanks to everbody
from the entire Mance Family.
Laura Mance
October 15, 2009
My 'Russ life' started in the mid 70's. You're right Jody, he was a stud. Russ helped and distracted us as we learned to be parents. For some of that time he lived with us and we lived under his spell. Everyone should have a Russ in their lives. Sharing life in Tucson with him was a gift we will always treasure. I loved him and will do so for the rest of my life.
We have so appreciated everyone's shared memories and perceptions.Thank you for your generous contributions this album. We all knew the same guy.
Laura (a sister)
Karl Schlaefer
October 15, 2009
I had the fortune of working with Russ on occasion. I had the greater fortune of considering Russ my friend. I think that nearly everyone who met Russ considered him a friend. When I first met Russ, we spoke at length of our love of the Catalina mountains, and compared notes on lengthly backpacking trips. We talked of the early days of KXCI and record collections, hole in the wall pubs and resturants, and many other fading Tucson oddities that brought back fond memories. Russ was "real", and I think some of lifes simplest pleasures were his greatest.
I will think of Russ often as I view the magnificence of an Arizona sunset.
My thoughts go out to all who knew and loved Russ.
Peace Russell.
Chris Blauvelt
October 14, 2009
Uncle Russ always made me laugh. He made us laugh. Growing up, my brothers and I would swarm around Russ during family gatherings...his sense of humor was witty, warm, and wild...Kyle, Jon and I could never get enough of his love and his laughs. I'll never forget the Christmas he spent with us in Pennsylvania, when we were kids. We set up luminaries on Christmas Eve, only it was too windy and all our luminaries caught fire...racing up and down our street with Uncle Russ, stomping out luminary fires, led way to the most memorable Christmas Eve my brothers and I ever had. I only wish I could have spent more time with Uncle Russel, but I laugh for him everyday, and I smile when I think about everyone's favorite uncle. I love you Uncle Russ. We all love you.
With love and laughter,
Your loving nephew,
Chris
steve Carriere
October 13, 2009
Russ was always genuinely happy to see me or anyone he knew. He instanly made you feel like you were his friend. I don't think he ever met a stranger. He would look you in the eyes when he talked to you and made you feel important. Russ and I would discuss art and exchange books on M.C.Escher and the like. He was one of the best men I've known. Russ you will be missed my Friend
Steve Carriere aka "Pup"
Lynn & Herman Boda
October 13, 2009
To Our Mance Family,
It is in times like this when families pull together and we are proud to be counted as members of this family. We love and cherish the fun times we have all had and it has been especially great watching all our neices and nephew's grow into wonderful adults. Russell was really special. The last couple of times we saw him while visiting in Tucson, he kept us laughing with his "over the top" humor. We had great visits with Russell. These are among the memories we hold and will cherish in our future recollections of Russell. There will always be that 6 or 7 year old spunky little boy with a twinkle in his`eye and we never knew what he was up to.
We miss you Russ; we pray you have found peace.
Leigh Whittingham Ruhl
October 12, 2009
Dearest Mance Family,
I am so terribly sorry for your loss. Russell was a kind, thoughtful, and very funny guy. He was larger than life to me as my big brother's best friend. I was always hanging around Russell and Philip and I only have fond memories of Russell-he didn't make me feel that I was a nuisance.
Peace by with you,
Leigh
Todd Scholer
October 12, 2009
Russ was always ready to take on on the next challenge at work with a smile and a laugh. He brightened your day no matter what. Rest in peace my friend. No more pain in the neck requests to fix it.
Jody
October 12, 2009
I still have a message from Russ saved on my answering machine, and am not sure when it will be erased. It's a typical Russ message. An intelligent, witty, flirtatious message to me, which I will undoubtedly miss tremendously, and then an "oh yea, hey guys its Russ, just checking in, making sure everything’s ok your way..." Forever unselfish. It has been so heartwarming reading all the tributes to Russ, knowing how many lives he touched and how many people truly understood, appreciated and loved him. The memories for me are many and range from being my high school boyfriends cute little brother to being my husband's "hot" little brother. I have been blessed to have spent special times with Russ; Xmas, birthdays, graduations, anniversaries, weddings and some very special quiet times. But what I will remember and miss most is Russ. His warmth, understanding, intelligence, sense of humor and love. He added so much to my life and to the lives of my daughters. He will be greatly missed by us all but always loved and in our hearts. May peace be with you Russ. I love you.
Peter Psaras
October 11, 2009
Dear Friends,
Over the last day since hearing the very sad news of Russ’s passing, I have tried to record “ a few thoughts” of the fond and lasting memories I consider myself fortunate to have shared with Russ and many of you.
Russ was a wonderful human being, classmate and friend who made everyone's life that he came in contact with much richer.
He always greeted you with a smile and had that special sparkle -- or more aptly, a bit of devilish twinkle -- in his eye as he made his always-witty observations and remarks.
I recall the few camping forays when we were all quite young attending Robert E. Bell Middle School socializing between classes where Russ’s organizing and interest in the outdoors became evident. Being the ever responsible outdoorsman, he quietly made sure that the campfire was kept small and not too bright so as to not give away our presence in the tiny bit of forest immediately adjacent the Middle School and some might accurately say…located directly in the MIDDLE of the town of Chappaqua!
During our years in Horace Greeley High School, Russ always seemed to be in the middle of organizing something or another.
I recall our often dramatic (for our age) paddle tennis tournaments held at the Mount Kisco Country Club where we went to decide who might have boasting rights for “just that one following week” until the next matches were played to decide who would be the next top dog. Russ was the best teammate to have if you were lucky enough to be paired with him and a great competitor when he was on the other side of the net.
During these amazing High School years there were also the many outdoor get togethers, camp outs and hiking trips which Russ always seemed to be central to as is often mentioned in our other classmates writing.
Then there was the official Horace Greeley High School -- white water rafting trip down the Delaware River where Russ seamlessly fell into one of the leadership roles imparting to each of us his sharp knowledge of all things outdoors being the avid outdoorsman that he was.
I remember the high-energy fun we had looking directly at each other from each others canoes, then frantically paddling and trying our hardest to pass each other as we went into the rapids down the river all the while splashing and being thrown around in our canoes laughing at the top of our voices. What a great memory…. which still brings a smile to my face even now as I now recollect and recount.
I also remember fun trips to Westport Connecticut’s Compo Beach for a day of Frisbee with Russ (he always seemed to have one on hand) in the sun and water where we also discussed various issues of the day and the future.
During our early work years, we stayed in touch and I sometimes had the pleasure of visiting with Russ during business trips to a large (8,000 person) manufacturing plant that IBM had in Tucson, Arizona where it built data storage tape drives.
Tapes drives, oh that’s right, I forgot that I am turning 50 next year. But remembering those fun times with friends like Russ seems to make time stand still and transport us back to what truly feels just like yesterday…when we were all in the hallways of Horace Greeley figuring out which classes we had to get to.
Russ was obviously in his element in the beautiful and grand surroundings that Arizona is known for and which Russ undoubtedly knew intimately well.
For all of us that had the great privilege of knowing Russ, our step will tread a little lighter whenever we are in the great outdoors…. in the sunshine ….or near the water ….breathing Gods fresh air.
I am grateful for Russ’s friendship.
Warmly,
Peter
[email protected]
October 11, 2009
i would have talked with
Russ on a day like today...he had a knack for knowing when it was a perfect Autumn day in New England and he would have called. we would have talked about the leaves, raking them, the crisp air and then of course, his tomatoes. he would be my first call when we had our first snowflake too, although sometimes he beat me to the punch and would call me to tell me it was snowing in CT. he was like that...knowledgeable like no other, funnier than anyone i know, irreverant of course, a guy to be admired. i always admired Russ. even as a kid when going through the confirmation process. i was told that i had to pick a name of a saint for my confirmation name...not thrilled about the saint thing, i wanted my confimation name to be Kenneth...today i am thrilled i did that. there are a thousand ways that i would like to be like Russ...of course i love Russ, but i really have always admired so much about him...ok kids, time for a cry and maybe a Guiness...hold please, i think a Guiness then a smile...it is a beautiful crisp sunny day...love you Russ
craig
john canez
October 10, 2009
dear mance family ,i first met russ while working at the ritz carlton he was quite an individual very talented and unique in his own ways uor relationship was on professional and personal level he was someone i could disscus work related or personal issues with most of our disscusions we were intrigued with humor and laughter he touched my life in a unique way that i will never forget him i will miss him very much i would really like to thank mr. and mrs.mance for giving us russel kenneth mance i will surley miss russ.he will be in my thoughts and my heart every day
eileen nolan
October 9, 2009
Dear Mance Family,
My deepest condolences to all who suffer this huge loss. Russell was a joy! I will never forget the pleasure it was to spend time talking, laughing and making memories with Russ. He remains one of my favorite friends and will be missed. I wish you peace and light in the days and months ahead.
David Sherbo
October 9, 2009
From a coworker/friend,Russ and I have spent many of long days on rooftops and machanical rooms trying to get systems up and running to close out projects.He has helped me out at home with my A/C unit and the burnt out light bulbs.(we wont go there)But most of all we use to talk about the great outdoors.Russ will be greatly missed.Rest in peace my friend.
Michael Scheer
October 8, 2009
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Mance,
As you read through the heartfelt words on these pages, please take solace in the knowledge all them represent lives that were touched by the wonderful person you brought into this world and raised to be the fine man that all of us knew and loved. Although in my mind I know it’s been years, in my heart it feels like we’re still just teenagers back at Greeley. Cruising in the Rally Sport. Fourth of July and golf carts at Sleepy Hollow. Jones Beach. Squantz Pond. Visits to Paul Smith’s. Camping. Hiking. We all have different versions, but we all have wonderful memories of our time with Russ that we will keep and cherish forever. Kim, Craig and Doug - in many ways we all lost a brother. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
October 8, 2009
The loss of someone so close is difficult to bear. We share your grief. To the Mance family, to Kim and Scott, we are so, so sorry.
With deep love,
Ron and Sue Wilcher
Joe Thomas
October 8, 2009
It was always treasured times when Russ came to visit. No conversations went unstimulated when Russ was involved. Just his wonderful and humorous outlook on life brought a smile to your face. I was blessed to know him and call him my friend.
Brothers, 2006
October 8, 2009
Russ and Terry, April 2006
October 8, 2009
Larry Borges
October 8, 2009
Russ brought humor to the worst of situations. Russ offered honesty and straight talk to every conversation and a freshness of spirit that will be missed. I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to know Russ and grieve his loss.
My thoughts and prayers to his many friends and all members of his family.
Doug O'Neal
October 8, 2009
Heart felt condolence to the family. I endured the loss of my wife several years ago and completely understand the hole that is in your heart.Russ was a confidant and friend and was a pleasure to work with, I am missing him greatly. The world has lost one of it's best
Bill Wilson Jr
October 8, 2009
Russ saved my bacon more times than I know, literally. I never tired of being around Russ and I will never tire of the many wonderful memories. Rat Fink, Brain Floss and many other Russ memories will always bring me a smile. To be loved by Russ must be a very special feeling. My prayers to the family.
FRIENDS AT SUN, (team mates)
Echo Buck
October 8, 2009
After reading all these great posts - I feel extra blessed to have had the privelage to work with and become friends with such a GREAT guy. You are in my thoughts daily and I really miss you. As you always said to me "it is what it is Echo" so I will have to keep you in my heart through all the wonderful memories I have of you. WE WILL MEET AGAIN MY FRIEND AND I WILL CHERISH THAT DAY AS MUCH AS I CHERISED YOU.
When that days comes I will bring the Birds of Paradise to you this time!
Echo :-)
Bart Blue
October 8, 2009
I had the pleaseure of hiring Russ and managing the Service Department @ Sun with his assistance for several years. Russ was without a doubt my key guy and I could always count on him in any situation. Even better than working together was getting to know Russ on a personal level outside of work. My kids still talk about the ugly-steak and egg breakfast he made us in his cabin on Mt Lemon and loved the stories he'd tell of backpacking adventures. Russ always asked about and showed concern for my wife and children, we shared many personal challenges with each other. He was a great friend I will miss deply and know that my life is profoundly better for knowing him.
Deepest sympathy and prayers to the family for this great loss,
Bart Blue
Corey Comeau (Sun Mech)
October 8, 2009
To the Mance Family: My sincere condolences in this difficult time. Please know that Russ was an important, respected and well liked member of the team at Sun. Russ kept us all laughing and on our toes with his quick wit and one of kind humor. We termed these funny quips and comments as Russisim's and have kept a list of them for several years. But, what I will remember most about Russ is that he had a big heart and genuinely cared about others.
Rest in peace my friend. No one could could "ROCK" the Glacier Glasses like you did!
Penny Pajak
October 8, 2009
Dear Mance Family,
Please know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers. Russ was a very great man and will surely be missed by many.
Penny Pajak
eduardo leon
October 7, 2009
VIOS CONDIOS MY FREIND,UNTIL THE NEXT RODEO. I WILL MISS YOU GREATLY
October 7, 2009
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Mance, Doug, Craig and Kim,
We were all extremely sad to hear of the passing of Russell. Our hearts and thoughts are with you as you go through this difficult time. We have so many great memories of growing up with Russell on Stone Road. Some of our favorite memories include the many games of running bases on your front yard, walking on the Con Ed trails, bike riding, flashlight tag, nighttime sleigh riding down your driveway and camping and/or hanging out in your big blue tent! Russell was always the best at telling the ghost and scary stories! He always added fun and excitement to whatever we were doing. He may be gone but he will not be forgotten as he will always be in all of our memories.
Love,
Gail Riordan Ashley, Larry Riordan and Linda Riordan
Alan Rice
October 6, 2009
To the Mance Family:
I am saddened by this news and am so sorry for your loss. I had the privilege of befriending Russ when we were seniors at Greeley. Though we had fallen out of touch in recent years, I still have fond memories of his warmth and generosity, his sharp wit, his familiar stride and his uncanny ability to capture the spirit of the moment. Truly a man of heart.
Jennifer and Dan Poryanda
October 5, 2009
Please except our deepest condolences. Russ was a precious gift to everyone who knew him. He brought love, joy and laughter into our lives and for this he will be truly missed, but never forgotten.
Carol Mortarotti
October 5, 2009
Doug, Laura and family.
I was also fortunate enough to be one of Russell's classmates at Greeley High. His humor, kindness and spirit touched so many of us. He will be greatly missed but never forgotten. God bless you during this difficult time. I will think of you of the 17th and be there in spirit.
Julie Hoffman
October 5, 2009
To the Mance family:
I can only imagine how hard this must be for all of you to lose such an incredible person. I was devastated when I heard. Russ and I were roommates back in the early 80s and I have so many great memories of him. I think of how he was so warm and caring, and how he was always so funny and witty. My family members have told me how highly they thought of Russ, and how many laughs he gave all of us over the years. He will certainly be missed by so many.
My family has an Irish prayer that we use for special family members, and I'm just going to put one line from that prayer here: Russ may you be in heaven
half an hour before the devil knows you're dead.
Take care my friend. I will miss you.
John and Mary Lynn Kelly
October 5, 2009
For Brother Russell - An astonishingly vivid character in a sometimes drab world. Whose eyes, ever darting, caught every detail and whose wit would tease, roast and honor the people and circumstances he experienced. While recent years did not find us together often, his is a voice and face that sticks with you. So, with a Russell-esque twinkle in my eye, let me offer an Irish prayer in his honor that I think he would have appreciated:
May those who love us, love us;
and those who don't love us,
may God turn their hearts;
and if He doesn't turn their hearts,
may he turn their ankles
so we'll know them by their limping.
With love to all whose lives Russell touched, and in honor of his memory.
Gerrit Blauvelt
October 5, 2009
Bob, Mary, Kim, Craig, Doug,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Please accept my condolenses and know that my thoughts are with the entire Mance Family during this difficult time.
Cheryl Rivera
October 5, 2009
Your family are in our prayers. Rusty has been our next door neighbor in Tucson for many years and no one could have asked for a better neighbor. He was always friendly and helped us on more then one occassions when we needed him. He was always willing to lend a hand. Once while we were on vacation our pot belly pig got out and our fence blew down. Rusty got him back in the yard and fixed our fence. He never asked for anything in return for his help. That is just the kind of guy he was and we are eternally greatful and proud to have known him. We are going to miss his smiling face in our neighborhood. Thank you for sharing him with us, he was a great person.
Sue Newton
October 5, 2009
Dear Doug, Laura & the Mance family,
I attended high school with Doug and did not know Russell, but after reading other people's comments, it is clear that he was a very special man. He will live on in your hearts and memories.
Sue Newton
Rob Liguori
October 5, 2009
My prayers and thoughts of deep sympathy are with you all and Russell as he watches over us. You "Salty Dog"...
With love,
Jean Kaestner
October 5, 2009
My thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathy to all your family.
Christine Ferguson Donaldson
October 5, 2009
To the Manses :
I went to Greeley with Russell but didn’t know him personally.
He was a class mate so I was very sad to hear of his passing.
My thoughts and prayers are with Russ and his loved ones at this hard time
Dale & Jennifer Nunn
October 5, 2009
Doug, Laura and family - may wonderful memories and the love of family & friends comfort you as you celebrate the life of Russ.
Wayne Meyer
October 5, 2009
Dear Doug, Laura & Family: Kay and I send our sincere condolences for your loss. I know you all had a great time together and Russell will be in your hearts forever. Please let us know if there is a favorite cause of Russells that we can help.
Love, Wayne & Kay
Martha Anderau
October 5, 2009
To the Entire Mance Family,
I was so saddened to hear of Russell's passing. We grew up across the street on Stone Road and Russell was my first crush. Everytime my mother saw Russell outside she would comment on what a handsome boy he was (hence my crush). I wish I had known him better, never the less he made a lasting impression. May your strong and loving family help you through this difficult time.
Martha Gervasi Anderau
Cori Hoag
October 5, 2009
Please accept my condolences. I didn't know him but he sounds like he will be greatly missed. Obit does not mention when he died. In September?
Regards
Miranda Sevcik
October 4, 2009
I always thought of Russell as my uncle even though it was by marriage. Listening to he and Doug as they traded quips and witticisms over a few beers was so incredibly entertaining. I just loved to hear them both talk and joke about everyday things that became so hilarious they way they explained them to me. Russell had a sharp mind, a sharper wit and a warm and caring heart. I really hope he knows how much he will be missed.
Chuck Gallagher
October 4, 2009
To the Mance Family and friends,
I send my thoughts, prayers and love to all. The pain that I have, I know is from the love I have for Russell. I hope my pain never go away, so my thoughts of all the great times we had together will never fade. My memories of Russell have and always will bring a smile to my face and joy to my heart.
My father said, if a person makes 2 or 3 truly good friends in their life, he is blessed. Then Russell my friend you are not only blessed but you greatly blessed.
When ever I go for a hike, climb a mountain, watch a lighting storm, I know you will be with me Russell and for that I'm greatfull. I'm very thankful for all the times we had together. You will be missed but never forgotten.
Love Chuck
Stephen Portell
October 4, 2009
I got to know Russ, because my wife Melissa and I are friends with Laura and Doug Mance. When Melissa and I bought our first house, we needed to have our furnace and A/C repaired, but had very little money. Russ came to our rescue. While he helped us, Russ impressed me as a deep thinker with a generous heart. More than that, he had a sense of humor that would leave people in stitches. I was lucky to know Russ better over the years and hear stories about his crazy cat and to hear his thoughtful take on life. Sadly, I did not know him half as well as I would have liked. Nevertheless, it was a privilege to know Russ. My heart goes out to his family and friends as they try to say goodbye...to this most excellent man.
October 4, 2009
So sorry to hear the news as I will always remember the joy that Russ provided....he being the light always provided with his cheerful smile and optimism. His spirit will live on. Hank Barnes Charlotte, Vermont
Carly Mance
October 4, 2009
“Everyone must leave something behind when he dies, my grandfather said. A child or a book or a painting or house or a wall built or a pair of shoes made. Or a garden planted. Something your hand touched some way so your soul has somewhere to go when you die, and when people look at that tree or that flower you planted, you’re there. It doesn’t matter what you do, he said, so long as you change something from the way it was before you touched it into something that’s like you after you take your hands away. The difference between the man who just cuts lawns and a real gardener is in the touching, he said. The lawn cutter might just as well not have been there at all; the gardener will be there a lifetime.”
Uncle Russ didn't cut grass. He planted gardens. We will miss him so much.
Love, Carly
Philip Whittingham
October 3, 2009
To the Mance Family and all Friends of Russ;
My heartfelt condolences and prayers for strength during the loss of such a besutiful human being. As you know Russ and I were best friends from the sixth grade through our graduation from Horace Greeley and I am devestated by his passing. I hold his integrity and honesty in the highest regard. He was a gentleman, a man of true character and one of the smartest, most fun people I have ever met. I was so very impressed with his work ethic and ability to see life in a realistic and objective manner. To Russ the glass was not half empty or half full, the glass was just twice as big as it should have been. He was practical and the ultimate technician in all regards. He lives on in my heart and mind as a genuine soul who brightened the day and night for all those that he touched.
I will miss his laugh, his wit and his love of nature and music. His legacy will always be that as a friend, I could always count on him. He was always there to help yet never asked for anything in return. I only wish that he had asked as he would have had an army, poised, and ready to assist.
Marc and Angel Lock
October 3, 2009
Mance family,
May you find peace knowing Russ; son, brother, uncle, and friend touched so many so greatly. I remember his quick wit, humor and simple way.
Russ, may you finally be at peace where you now rest. We will all miss you very much.
October 3, 2009
Doug & the entire Mance family,
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Annie Moral (KVOA)
Tucson,AZ
Jim Hughes
October 3, 2009
I have known Russ for many years and considered him a friend. I was saddened and suprised to hear the news. We always talked about motorcycles and I usually tried to kid him into getting back on the road. I will miss his friendship and sense of humor. My thoughts are with his family
Lyle and Patsy Beattie
October 3, 2009
To Doug Mance and Family:
Even tho we did not know Russell, we are saddened for you because of such an untimely loss. The Mance family has been important in our lives for over thirty years. Please accept our most heartfelt condolences.
Lyle and Patsy Beattie
Dawn Clark Zanfardino
October 3, 2009
To the Mance family, my heart is deeply saddened by the loss of your son, your brother. I know the pain you are feeling and as time passes your heart will heal and you will continue to have warm and loving memories of Russ in your heart to hold forever. With love and light to you and your family. Dawn
October 3, 2009
Uncle Russell - Thank you for adopting Trouble.
With love and deepest condolences,
Jen Giorgio
October 2, 2009
To all the Mances:
The Harts wish you strength and, eventually, peace as you struggle to get past this pain to a place where you remember the joy.
Tim Hart and family
October 2, 2009
dear all I was sorry to hear your sad news . I remember Russell as an out going younger brother . Always smiling and happy to be around the big kids. My prayers are with you all . Colleen mullane Moore
Kathy Curran Collins
October 2, 2009
Our love and prayers to all the Mance Family at this very sad and difficult time. I will always remember Russell with a special and warm affection. The Curran/Collins families are thinking of you all!
Bonnie Dana
October 2, 2009
Russell- I will miss all of our terrifically warped conversations about B-movies, cartoons, and the not so golden era of the white disco pantsuit. How incredible it was to know you, work with you and revel in the non-sequitur. I miss you terribly.
SPOON!!!!!
Chrissy Mance
October 2, 2009
"Uncle" Russ...we joked about being Mances and how cool we were about seven years ago. I still remember it, you were the life of the party and always made me laugh. You will be greatly missed, and always remembered for your energy, humor and, apparently, fantastic tomatoes!
XOXO to all the Mances, keeping you all in my thoughts during this difficult time.
Alice Behrens Boyce
October 2, 2009
I only got the chance to meet Russ one time at Kim & Scott's wedding, but I vividly remember how funny he was - he had an amazing ability to light up a room when he walked in. I remember the big, enthusiastic "welcome to the family" hug that he gave to me and a smile as if we were life-long friends. May God's peace be with you all - and may Russ rest in peace.
Kimberly Crossman
October 2, 2009
Russell, you were a gift to all of us. One true soul who saw through people like no other. Your humor and antics kept us going for many hours on end. Thank you for everything!! You will be missed. My prayers are with your loved ones and you. xox
Nancy Sanaghan
October 2, 2009
Doug, Laura and family - our hearts go out to you during this difficult time. We have so many memories of Russ. He was our first employee and was with us for 13 years. I still remember him sitting at our kitchen counter when he applied for the job. We went thru so much with him: life's trials and life's jublilations. His intelligence and humor were extraordinary. We will never forget him.
Ed Curran
October 2, 2009
Mance Family, So sorry to hear this news. My thoughts and prayers are with Russ and you all.
Joyce Kelly
October 2, 2009
Russ preferred the real deal in everything from tomatoes to dogs to people and never suffered fools gladly, if at all.
"Ruttle" was an awesome Uncle to my nieces and a good friend long ago. He introduced me to KXCI-91.3 - the best radio station ever -- and where to find blue corn pancakes. He knew the El Casino ballroom and all the truest places downtown.
Russ was real and true and ready for a cooler place. Hope he knew how much he was loved.
Brigid Sherbo
October 2, 2009
Russ came out to our home a few months ago to help Dave with an electrical problem, that Dave was sure he caused. They tore all kinds of wires out and still could not figure out why the hippy lights above our island weren't working. They were truely stumped, when I suggested they check the bulbs...Russ told me that there was no way that the bulbs were burned out, ha ha they were! Russ was as red as a tomatoe and Dave just shook his head. Russ was a great friend to Dave and always had a warm hug for me, he will be missed.
bob gottlieb
October 2, 2009
doug and laura
my thoughts are with you in this time
Brian Rundquist
October 2, 2009
Russ Mance a true visionary
With thought processes far beyond mortal men, more than a friend and associate
He was dedicated to going above and beyond just satisfying the client / customer / engineer / contractor / and friends
Russ always had everyone’s best interests at heart and always shared a little humor to brighten your day.
We will carry forth your memory and laughter with us and hoist a drink or two in your honor.
It was a pleasure and an honor to be your friend
John Walmer
October 2, 2009
A very sad loss for all of us. Peace be with you.
Pam Kanner
October 2, 2009
My heart goes out to the Mance family. I have so many wonderful, funny memories of Russ which I will cherish forever. My life has been better for having known and loved him.
Diana McCurry
October 2, 2009
You are so missed. Thanks for all the wonderful laughs, stories, advice on gardening, and our shared philosophies.
Echo Buck
October 2, 2009
Thanks for all the great times and the beautiful tropical birds of paradise! You surely loved your garden. I will turely miss you. Rest in Peace my FRIEND.
Stormy
October 2, 2009
I did not have the pleasure of knowing Russell personally. He only recently became known to me through someone that I love dearly. I would like to express sympathy to all who had been close to Russell and to all who are feeling the loss through someone they love.
Bob Howell
October 2, 2009
Russ was one of the few people I knew that could walk into a room and have everyone rolling with laughter by the time he left. I hope found what you we're looking for. You will be deeply missed Mr. Mance!
Mary Jane McHugh Acito
October 2, 2009
Doug, Craig, Kim
Guys, I am so sorry. Russell was awesome.
Love to you all,
Mary Jane McHugh Acito
Peter Bish
October 2, 2009
Doug and Laura,
Our thoughts are with you, dear friends.
Mary Jane and Peter
Lakeside, White Mountains
will neilson
October 2, 2009
you were one of the last great americans
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How to support Russell's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
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Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
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The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Russell Mance's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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