Russell McKee

Greater Lansing Potters' Guild is indebted to Russ for his outstanding leadership as the first president of the Guild. Through his kindness, love of the arts and quiet approach, the young organization of would be potters was launched.

Eldon Clark, President, GLPG

Boys need stories in order to become men. Thanks to my Uncle Russ I have been able to tell others about Paris, and the hot summer day I spent bucking hay onto a wagon and also buzzing bees in an autumn vineyard. The air was as thick as jam with the scent of grapes. He lived a storied life. He will remain an inspiration.

Russ McKee was a great inspiration and a generous mentor when I was a young writer struggling to find my literary legs. His books and essays are filled with clarity, good sense, compassion, and wit -- as was Russ himself. He will always be a hero to those who care deeply about Michigan, the Great Lakes, and the power of literature to change the world.

I may have never had the chance to meet my Great Uncle, but I would have loved to share a glass with him. He lived a full and exciting life, one I could only hope to achieve.

Uncle Russ was one of the most interesting men I have known. His humor and laughter were infectious and it was always a pleasure to spend time with him, Shirley and the kids at the farm. It has been years since I last saw him so my memories well always live on as the jovial artist in our family of engineers. My family (Diana, CeCe and Ian) send our deepest sympathy to Rob and Linda on the loss of their father. We celebrate Russell’s life and the memories he has left us with. Perhaps...

What a beautiful story of Russ's life. Thank you to whoever wrote it. When I was young and my family would visit the McKee family I remember Russ as a kind man always smiling! I am sure he will be missed by many people. Gina

Few people excel at both writing and editing. Russ McKee did both with passion, insight and generosity. He helped us new writers find our voice and inspired us to succeed. Michigan has lost a literary giant; the natural world a champion. My condolences to his family.

Gene & Carol Saunders and family Richard (Diana and daughter CeCe), Gina, and Shellie Dow (Daniel and son Reno) offer our deepest sympathy to Martha, Linda and Robert, at the passing of an honorable, loved, respected and talented man as was Russell. We all will miss him greatly.