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Russell M. Haas

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William Allen High School

Russell Haas Obituary

Russell "Russ" M. Haas, 61 of Bangor, passed away Thursday, January 21, 2021 at Lehigh Valley Muhlenberg in Bethlehem, with his family surrounding him. He was the loving husband of Maritza McEnery-Haas married on December 22, 2012. Born in Allentown, he was the son of the late Marvin and Clara (Reigel) Haas. He was a 1977 graduate of William Allen High School, where he was a drummer in the Canary Marching Band and the singer for the Canary Cavalier Jazz Band. He always enjoyed singing and playing the drums for all to hear, including different bands all across the Lehigh Valley.

A friend to all, he will be missed by many people who knew and loved him. He was predeceased by his parents, Marvin and Clara, and Sister, Kathryn (Haas) Walter. He is survived by his wife, Maritza, Sister, Bonnie (Haas) Livinghouse, Nephew, Troy Livinghouse and wife, Melissa, Sons, Kevin (McEnery) Jr. and wife, Michelle, and Stephen (Monteverde) and wife, Amber. Together he shares four grandchildren, one great niece, and two puppies, Sheriff and Ranger.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in memory of Russ on go fund me for future set back expenses. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, the family will hold a private ceremony and burial after cremation. A celebration of life is being planned in the spring.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Morning Call on Jan. 31, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Russell Haas

16 Entries

Thomas Sorrentino

March 3, 2025

I left three days after graduating from Allen for boot camp. After years of moving around. And after Desert Shield/Storm I tried to locate and connect with Russ again. No luck even though I reached out to some friends who were also in the band with us. They didn't know where you were either.
Today I was trying to find some videos online about our competitions and half time shows. While looking I sadly came across this. I finally found you but unfortunately not the way I was expecting. We had a lot of good time together in high school. I can still recall when we went to Florida to play in the Orange Bowl parade and half time show.
I will always think about you perhaps now more than ever. Prayers to your family and all who were and are affected by this unfortunate event. May God bless and watch over them. Maybe you'll even have your own band and recording studio in Heaven. Keep the music going. And thank you for being part of my life!

Susan Morgenstern

February 1, 2021

In loving memory of a wonderful man. We will love you and miss you always. I’m so glad I got to know him. He will always be in our hearts, RIP Russ. Healing prayers to the family.

Dan J Slifer

February 1, 2021

So Sorry to hear a Russ's passing, I went to Jr. high and Allen '77 with him. He was a Cool guy we talked often and laughed, I do remember his great voice. God Bless and my prayers are with you all.
Dan Slifer

Joe Schell

February 1, 2021

I met Russ over 20 years ago when he filled in on drums for several shows with a band I was playing with at that time, the Red Wolf River Band. After that I didn't see him for many years, but just over a year ago, in September 2019, we did a show together with Bill Reese. Russ immediately remembered me and greeted me like an old friend. He was a great drummer, a great singer, and most important, a great person. He will be missed.

Jan and Tommy Zito

February 1, 2021

Russ was the drummer for the doo-wop group DESIRE and I was fortunate to share the stage with him at the casino. He gave me a beautiful crucifix and when I wear it onstage,I will be thinking of him fondly....r.i.p Russ We''ll all miss you

Kassandra McEnery

February 1, 2021

We may not always seen eye eye but you did make my mom happy . You we’re definitely a phenomenal drummer and amazing singer. You will truly be missed. Please watch over us and may you SIP. LOVE

Jon & Sandy Maury

January 31, 2021

Sandy & I are so sorry to hear about Russ’s passing. It is such a difficult time for Maritza, and our hearts and prayers are with her. Russ was an excellent drum student of mine in the ‘70’s at Henry Johns Music in Allentown. I introduced Russ to quite a few musicians and bandleaders to give him a choice of which styles of live music he would enjoy most. As anyone who knew him could attest, he was a fantastic singer. That combo of talent kept him in constant demand. Intermittently he would contact me to say hello, talk music, etc. He still had that under his breath chortle when we talked. As though his voice had a smile in it.
We made contact a few years ago and I met Maritza. They had the best relationship. I loved that. It is hard for most wives of musicians. They were great together.....and a great team right to the end. It will always be Russ & Maritza. Be well. We love you Maritza, and we will always remember “Russy”.

Kathy Schaffer

January 31, 2021

I am so sorry for your loss, Bonnie. May our dear Lord ease the ache, grief. and longing in your heart. Our group is still going via Zoom--same time, same place. If you would like a link to our group text or email me.
Love,
Kathy

Colin Core

January 31, 2021

Mr. Haas was the Drumline instructor during my freshman and sophomore years at BECA. He taught me my first introduction to drums and I thank him for where I am today as a drummer. I am terribly sorry to hear of his passing. Sending many prayers to his family and friends for their loss and hope they are okay.

Sharon DiSalvi

January 31, 2021

Maritza, so very sorry for your loss, there are no words right now to heal your broken heart at this point... healing prayers of strength and love going out to you right now❤

Aidan Michels

January 31, 2021

A great instructor and inspiring leader for the Bethlehem Catholic Golden Hawk Marching Band.

Kristen Morgenstern

January 31, 2021

Russ was a wonderful person and outstanding musician, all the guys and I are going to miss Russ so much.He was always so much fun to be around and always made you smile. Sending My sincere condolences to his family and friends.RIP RUSS

Karen Scheese-Mertz

January 31, 2021

I remember Russ from walking the orange bowl parade and marching down Main Street in Disney. Keep in drums going in heaven. Until the band meets again on the other side. RIP my friend

Susan & Chuck Jarrell

January 31, 2021

Maritza and family,

Chuck and I are so very sorry about Russ's passing. He was an awesome singer and played perfect drums to any song, even if he never heard the song. My last time I saw Russ was at our Dr.'s office and he was looking quite good after his weight loss. We had a nice conversation. Chuck was looking forward to coming for a visit after this pandemic was over after talking with Russ on the phone, now it will never be.
I am very thankful to our Lord for Russ is no longer suffering from his diabetic issues and whatever other health issues he had, for he is whole again and in perfect health. He is playing and singing with his old buddies Jim Silverthorn and Bubba Druckenmiller and whoever passed before him, they are having a great reunion together.
Rest easy Russ for we will all miss you here on earth, especially, your loving wife Maritza. We will see you one day again and we will all party together again.

Dr. David Charles Smith

January 31, 2021

The members and friends of Jordan United Church of Christ extend our deepest sympathy and Christian love to Bonnie, Troy, Melissa, Regan, and the entire family at this time of loss and grief. May the peace of the Risen Christ offer comfort and hope in the days ahead.

Louise E Foote

January 30, 2021

I was in the drum line with Russ in high school. He was a great guy. Prayers for the family.

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