Russell Andrew Hill

Russell Andrew Hill, 62, passed away on May 27, 2023 while hiking in La Plata Canyon. Russ, as he was known to his friends and family, was a gentle giant not unlike the Newfies he loved. He was often seen on hikes and adventures in the La Platas with his Newfoundland dogs and his longtime companion, forever parter, love and wife Maria. Russ was kind, caring, and had an understated personality. He laughed easily, and his love for his family and friends was evident to all who knew him.

Russ was born on December 31, 1960, and graduated from the University of Michigan with a degree in medicine. At the age of five Russ knew that he wanted to be a doctor. He was known to be driven and worked hard to get what he wanted. After graduating from medical school his love for the outdoors and mountains brought him to the Four Corners.

He dedicated over 34 years of his life serving the people of our community as an Emergency Department Doctor in Farmington, New Mexico, and Durango, Colorado. Russ had recently retired and left behind a legacy of compassion and dedication to his patients.

In his free time, Russ enjoyed hiking, skiing, and adventuring in the La Platas. He was an avid collector and builder of big things: military trucks, snowcats, and bulldozers were part of his collection. Russ held his friends close and found joy in little things. He put others first and could see the good and potential in others where many could not.

Russ is survived by his wife, Maria J?quez, his brother Gregory Hill, and his mother Linda Hill. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 17th, at the entrance to La Plata Canyon in Durango, Colorado. Memories will be shared at noon. Please join us.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Annie's Orphans and the La Plata County Human Society in Russ's memory.

Much gratitude and thanks goes out to members of search and rescue and those who hike and love the canyon.