Russell Owens

I believe he was my fifth grade teacher at Hershey Elementary. This was probably in late 1950’s or early 1960’s. I was going through a very difficult time and he was a very caring teacher. He was the main reason I became an elementary teacher and taught in the Middletown School District for 30 years! Mr. Owens left a positive lasting impression on my life! Thank you!

What a wonderful wonderful man. A blessing to the young black children growing up during the 70s & 80s. May God continue to bless & comfort the family. Rusty I will always love & appreciate you. S.I.H.P.

Nell, even though I never met Rusty, it was obvious from your stories when we worked together that you adored him. May those good memories of your life mate help console you now.

Nell, Children and Grandchildren,
Rusty taught our children (Kristin and Erin) to swim while we lived in Harrisburg from 1973-78. They became competitive swimmers and both did well in their age groups. They learned from Rusty the joy of swimming. Rusty allowed me to be the announcer at the events where our children swam, so I got to witness firsthand his wonderful presence and the lessons he taught. I learned from him the same joy and later in life learned to become a better swimmer...

God Bless you Rusty. Thank you for all you did for me and my Family.

Sorry for your loss.

I'm a dog lover and early morning adult swimmer at the Friendship Center. Rusty always acknowledged me and made sure I had a lane for my swim. One morning, he greeted me with a copy of Marley and Me, a book celebrating the friendship of a man and his dog. He was a special man who inspired many to show up and do their best.

Thank you, Coach Rusty, for sparking the love of swimming in my now 16 year old daughter when she was 4 years old. She earned her Varsity letter this year as a sophomore on the Spring-Ford Swim Team. All 3 of my kids loved seeing you every day at Colonial. You were a kind and generous soul who will live on through your family.

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.