Brian Douglas Russell

Brian Douglas Russell

Brian Douglas Russell passed away on March 29, 2021. Brian was a beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle and friend, who bravely lived life to the best of his ability while battling Parkinson's Disease and other health issues over the last ten years of his life. He lived his life without complaint, always grateful for whatever abilities he still possessed to enjoy his life and family.

He is survived by his wife, Karen Bitter (Sterling Heights) and his children Charles Russell (Tucson) and Kerry Russell (Royal Oak); his siblings, Michael Russell (Holt), Margaret Russell Clara (Denver), Kathleen Russell (Rochester) and Terrence Russell (Spokane), as well as numerous nieces and nephews, cousins, step-grandchildren, and one step-great grandchild. He was the son of Raymond and Winnie Russell of Rochester, and attended Rochester Elementary, Middle and High Schools. Brian was a local Boy Scout, a high school football star center, a graduate of Wayne State University and a lifelong student of Rochester and Michigan history. As youngsters, Brian's family often attended the Fall Turkey Shoot at Greenfield Village, and Brian also participated in musket shoots. He participated in Civil War reenactments with his dad, and grew up working with his parents at Michigan Antique Arms Collectors shows. Brian loved traveling to book stores and collector shows around the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. Brian and his dad Ray were well known among military history collectors.

Brian's love of rare books led to a lifelong career as a bookseller, at collector shows, through catalog sales, and at his Fourth Street Book Shop in Royal Oak. He was a longtime friend and supporter of his golf and poker buddy Jack Kevorkian. He used his big heart and gentle manner to befriend others less fortunate. Brian looked like Santa Claus, and always was delighted when young children mistook him for Santa - he'd look back as he walked away, and wink or wave, and loved to see how thrilled they were.

His passing leaves a huge void in the hearts of his family and friends. Our hearts are forever broken.

Due to COVID, a private celebration of his life will take place later this Spring.