Russell LaPaglia

Russell (Russ) LaPaglia died peacefully on Friday, August 15th at age 89, with his loving wife at his side.

Born in Bronx, NY, Russ lived a full life dedicated to family, career, and service. He graduated from Fordham University, received his Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry from the University of Rochester, and was a member of the American Chemical Society. He served in the US Air Force and reserves from 1961 to 1970. Russ worked as a Professor of Chemistry at Georgetown University until moving to California with his young family. He obtained his degree in patent law, and worked for Chevron Corporation for most of his career. He played a significant role in the success of Chevron’s Techron product as chemist and Chief Patent Counsel.

Russ met his wife, Mary Anne, at the wedding rehearsal-dinner of his brother, Vincent, and Mary Anne’s best friend, Georgia. Russ knew immediately that Mary Anne was the one, and wasted no time proposing: they married that same year! Inseparable ever since, they settled in San Francisco, where he shared his exploration of new interests with his children: fishing in Lake Merced and the bay, golf at Harding Park, and the 49ers and Giants games at chilly Candlestick Park. In 1995, Russ and Mary Anne traded cold and fog for full-time sunshine in the Timber Pines golf community of Spring Hill, FL. They moved in 2023 to Johnson City, TN to be near family.

Russ held high standards for himself in his career, education, hobbies, and family responsibilities. He expected as much from others, as well. An introvert, Russ was most comfortable with his books, classical music, technology, and learning. He could be coaxed from his private world with Mary Anne’s encouragement: parties, book-club, world travel, dances, leading a Webelos Scout troop, and participating in frequent golf foursomes at Timber Pines. He had four verified holes-in-one!

Throughout his lifetime, he developed a love of good food and wine, and enjoyed sharing that love with friends and family. Russ also had his heart melt when he was chosen by Stache, enjoying the simple pleasure of being trusted by a cat. The two remained constant companions for the duration of Stache’s life. Russ had a dry and often self-deprecating sense of humor, tossing out a well-timed joke to break tension. A humanist and optimist at heart, the last year of his life he became much more open to sharing the softer sides of himself: he was full of empathy, patience, gratitude, and love.

Russ is survived by his wife of 62 years, Mary Anne. He is also survived by his son Christian (Jane) and beloved grandchild, Eliza Rose; his daughter Rosemary Kleske (Bryan); brother Vincent LaPaglia (Georgia), niece Lisa Agosti (Greg), nephew Brian LaPaglia; brother-in-law William O’Malley, and niece and nephews Bill, Laura, and Brian (Arielle) O’Malley. He is preceded in death by his parents, Victor LaPaglia and Rose Ciminna.

As those who knew him say goodbye, we remember the generosity, quirks, laughter, and insights Russ brought into our lives. He will be deeply missed.

Honoring his wishes, there will be no funeral/memorial service. The family invites you to raise a toast to a good man, maybe even with Russ’s favorite, a glass of Merlot.

Memories and condolences may be shared via www.morrisbaker.com

Morris-Baker Funeral Home, 2001 E Oakland Ave, Johnson City, is honored to serve the LaPaglia family. (423) 282-1521