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Russell Sackett Obituary
Russ was born on May 27, 1958, in Pittsfield, MA to the late Faith and Russell D. Sackett, Sr. He graduated from Pittsfield High School in 1976, and received a bachelor's degree in Forest Management from the University of Maine in 1980. An avid outdoor enthusiast, he attained the rank of Eagle Scout and was a Boy Scout Troop 1 leader.
Russ and Mary-Jane (Ryba) were married on October 6, 1990. Russ was a devoted and supportive stepfather to his five children, Sarah Scarola (Peter) of Plymouth Meeting, PA, Karen Potak of Pittsfield, MA, David Potak (Ria Kristiana) of Charlotte, NC, Catherine Potak of Northampton MA, and Laura Potak-Gibbs of Bryn Mawr, PA. Russ was dearly loved by his eight grandchildren: Marlon Binns and Quincy Abellie, Isabella and Autumn Scarola, Charlotte and Connor Potak, Summer Potak-Gibbs, and Carys Potak.
He was a registered professional land surveyor and founded Sackett Survey Services Inc. in 1993. He was well-known and highly regarded throughout the surveying community. He enjoyed traveling with his wife, exploring such far-reaching locales as Alaska, Peru, and most recently, New Zealand. He also enjoyed hiking, cycling, and was an avid downhill skier, working as a volunteer Ski Ambassador at Jiminy Peak for the last 8 ski seasons. One could often find Russ working on a home improvement project or enjoying a good book. He was a jack-of-all-trades and known for his thoughtful and easy-going nature.
Russ was predeceased by his sister Rebecca Sackett and his son-in-law Dawud Potak-Gibbs.
In his final act of generosity, Russ bequeathed his body to the University of Massachusetts Medical School, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and medical research.
A celebration of life will be planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Russ's name to Central Berkshire Habitat for Humanity or the American Cancer Society.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Russell Sackett
Sponsored by The Berkshire Eagle.
Walter Cudnohufsky
April 22, 2025
We are shocked to learn of Russ´s passing and obviously far far too young. Our professional project connection was always a treat and I came away from each exchange feeling good about humanity, feeling validated and knowing I had just spent a few minutes with fully rounded great man. We acknowledge your significant loss.Walter Cudnohufsky
Christine Regnier
November 6, 2024
The Photo speaks a thousand words about that kind of a guy russ was. Happy caring and loving to his family and friends. The kind of person that leaves a lasting impression.
Carolyn Valli
November 18, 2023
Russ, was a wonderful man and gave so much of himself to community. Habitat is forever grateful for the impact he had on the organization and the families that are now homeowners because of his work. I met Russ 35 years ago when I was new to the Berkshires and his leadership and gentle spirit was a guiding light.
Carolyn Valli, Central Berkshire Habitat for Humanity
Robert Garrity
November 17, 2023
Russ will be missed he made a very positive impact on my life through his leadership and voluntary participation with the Boy Scouts and Explorer Troop 1 . He dedicated a lot of his personal time to these efforts and was always eager to pass on his knowledge which was invaluable .
Marsha Winters
November 16, 2023
I went to school for many years with Russ. I remeber he was always kind of quiet but very kind.
It's sounds as if he had a wonderful, love filled life. My condolences to his family, RIP Russ
Brent White
November 15, 2023
Our family´s firm had the pleasure of working with Russ for many years helping mutual clients. We are all very sorry for your loss.
the White family and White Engineering.
Mark D Annis
November 15, 2023
MJ Sue and my condolences. His professional services will be missed and his dedication to the profession will be missed.
Gary Fix
November 15, 2023
Mary Jane and Family, my deepest condolences on your loss. I worked with Russ for many years at MALSCE, and always found his input to be helpful and professional.
Shaun Vincent
November 14, 2023
Mary Jane and your family, I am very saddened to hear about Russ' passing. I learned so much from him in the Scouts on many rock & ice climbing trips, XC ski adventures, and campouts. Russ gave me my first land surveying job, and that gave me the foundation I built my career on. He was a great campfire storyteller and outdoorsman, a kind and thoughtful person with a unique sense of humor. My condolences, he will be dearly missed.
PATRICK MCCOLGAN
November 14, 2023
Mary-Jane and family know that we feel your loss. Russ was an amazing person and this world is a far better place for him having been here. You both left a mark on many. You both have done so much to help others. I have known and worked with Russ for many years and I will always remember and appreciate him. You Mary-Jane were my wife's doula for our second son. We pray that you find comfort in knowing that our loss is heavens gain. God is faithful!
Patrick & Lisa McColgan & all at Taconic Land Consultants
Michele Wayman Robertson
November 14, 2023
Mary-Jane, Sarah, Karen, Dave, Cathy, Laura and your beautiful families:
I'm so very sorry for your loss of Russ. He was such a sweet guy. Thinking about my cousins and sending my love.
Margaret Borden
November 14, 2023
My heart was saddened when I heard this.He was a great guy took great care are of his whole family. Sorry Mary Jane and family of your husband loss RIP Russ
Janice (McCoy) Butler
November 14, 2023
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Christine Regnier
November 14, 2023
Maryjane and family. Words can't express how sorry I am to learn iof Russ passing. You were blessed the day he came into your lives. Russ was the guy who was always there and willing to help when needed. I know for certain he made you so very happy and you will lean on the wonderful memories till you meet again..
Regina Mason
November 14, 2023
I keep thinking back to that day when I mistakenly invited both of you for dinner at my house in the same evening. Best mistake I ever made! What a wonderful 33 years you have had, and lucky me to have had two people I adore in one home. My heart goes with you during this time. A blessing to all whose lives he touched, Russ will be sorely missed. Sending love from the heart to your whole family....
Emily & Larry Holmberg
November 14, 2023
Our sincere condolences to Mary-Jane and the family. Russ will be greatly missed in the local surveying community. He was always upbeat and had a ready smile.
Carol Travers Hoyda
November 14, 2023
Dear, dear Mary-Jane and family. I am so sorry for the loss of your sweet Russ. He was such a sweet and humble guy, and you made each other so happy! I had no idea until I saw your FB post today, November 14. My most sincere condolences to you and your beautiful family.
Much Love,
Carol Travers Hoyda
James Seidl
November 14, 2023
My condolences go out to Mary-Jane and the family. As a fellow Surveyor, I enjoyed our discussions at our local Chapter Surveyors meetings and on the trips Russ and I sometimes shared going to and coming from those meetings. Russ will be greatly missed in the Surveying community.
Deborah McCaleb
November 14, 2023
Mary Jane, I am so sorry for your loss. I was so shocked and saddened when I read it in the paper. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Debbie McCaleb
Courtney Hamilton
November 14, 2023
Karen, Quincy, Marlon & family... I am so very sorry for the loss of your dad/grampa/husband. Hang on to all the great memories made! May he forever rest in peace.
Greg Meunier
November 14, 2023
Mary Jane, I'm in absolute shock. I know how close you two are and I'm sure you're devastated; my heart goes out to you, Russ was the Best of the Best. We will speak soon , my Love and Tears to you and your family.
Bill Hickey
November 14, 2023
MJ...I am speechless. Russ was such a nice person...always so pleasant. My sincere condolences to you and your family.
Judy & Brian Miner
November 14, 2023
We are saddened for your loss of Russ, Mary-Jane. You two were an amazing love story. Brian and he spent many happy hours hiking; a good friend. Take care knowing you had a wonderful, loving husband and caring Step-Father. He will have a Special place in heaven.
Tom and Kim Taglieri
November 13, 2023
Our deepest condolences. Russ came into our store (Alliance Appliance) every so often and his sincere smile was infectious. We would talk about our families and how everyone was doing. He was such a nice person. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
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