Donald J. Rustici

Back in the 70's when I was fresh out of college, Don gave me my initial break into commercial radio at WSTC. Who was to know I would be there 10 years.
He had a great sense of humor, was a great communicator and a mentor of mine.
Many thanks Don for everything.
My sincere condolences to Don's family.
Stamford has lost an icon.
He will be missed.

Don Russell was Mr.Stamford to me and to my family. His column, his voice, will be missed by so many. Life goes so swiftly. My heartfelt condolences to all. I am a Stamford native and was an avid fan.

3/13/10
"The old conductor with the red suspenders."

-30-

We enjoyed knowing Don these recent years, and hearing his fascinating stories of people and events in his career. Don was a true gentleman as well as a consummate professional. Virginia, I know you will miss him. Our hearts go out to you.

I always read with pleasure Don's pieces in The Advocate and found them a great comfort and inspiration as well as a source of information; I regret that I never was able to personally thank him for the kind references he made to the Rimland family businesses in Stamford, but wherever he is now I am sure that he knows I am grateful, and maybe he is even sharing a few laughs with my father....he was a truly great citizen not only of our city but of our country and of the world........Don's...

Virginia and Family, We were so saddened to hear about Don's death and realize how difficult it will be for all you to lose such a wonderful man from your life. We will always cherish the memories of our time with him, especially the rainy evening in London and are grateful that our lives were touched by him. You will be in our thoughts and prayers. Lee Swayze and John Ferguson

Don's unique platform, passion and skill resulted in a fierce advocate for our library. We will miss his strong voice and counsel. I'd like to think he's looking around heaven right now to pull together the State Street Debating Society guys for dinner. Maybe asking Plato to stop by.

Virginia & Family,
We were so sorry to learn of Don's passing. Don was our boss at CT Public TV when we had studios in Stamford and I can say that of all the people that we have worked with he was, by far, the best. Always a gentleman and always up for a good joke. We'll miss hearing all those stories from The Honeymooners. We send our condolences to you and the entire family and hope you realize just how many lives he touched in a wonderful way.

Don was a unique individual - a man of impressive credentials and experience, who never tried to impress you with his many accomplishments. We are both so grateful for the years that we had the pleasure of knowing him and enjoying his friendship. Our hearts go out to you, Virginia, and to all of Don's family and many friends.
Tom and Elyse