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Russell Hemenway Obituary
Rhinebeck - Russell D., died peacefully at home on January 30, 2014. He was 88.
Russ Hemenway was, for more than fifty years, a true warrior spirit in American politics, combating the power of the radical right from the days of Joe McCarthy to the contemporary influences of extreme conservatism. From 1966 until his death, he was the National Director of the National Committee for an Effective Congress, founded in 1948 by Eleanor Roosevelt. He was the father of campaign finance disclosure reform in the early 70's. He was born on March 24, 1925, in Leominster, MA, to Bess and Alan E. Hemenway.
He graduated from Dartmouth College in 1949 and continued his education at The Institut d'Etudes Politiques in Paris. Hemenway served in the Navy during World War II aboard the heavy cruiser USS Pittsburgh.
He married Catherine Casey in Paris in 1951, and was widowed by her in 1999. Their daughter, Anne Hemenway, survives him. He is also survived by a son, Brent G. Hemenway, two grandsons, Alexander and Maverick Douglas, a sister, Joyce H. Brown, a son in law, John H. Wilson, a daughter in law, Christina Morales Hemenway, and five nieces, Elesse T. Brown, Valentine L. Judge, Phoebe Legere, Jane L. Jackson, and Alison L. Fraser. Mr. Hemenway was pre-deceased by his sister, Winifred Ledger and his brother, Richard Hemenway.
A service will be held on February 14 at 2pm at St Thomas Church, 1 W 53 St. NYC. In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to The NY Public Library. Links to obituaries can be found at:www.dapsonchestney.com. Arrangements are under the direction of the Dapson-Chestney Funeral Home, 51 W. Market St. Rhinebeck.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Russell Hemenway
Sponsored by Anne Hemenway.
John Wilson
February 28, 2015
For Russell, my father-in-law, who was and is a huge part of my life.
I miss you, Russ.
February 28, 2015
For Russell, who was and is a huge part of my life. I miss you Russ.
Anne Hemenway
February 27, 2015
Russell D. Hemenway - New York Times obit:
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/02/05/us/politics/russell-hemenway-dies-at-88-devised-strategies-to-aid-liberal-causes.html?hpw&rref=obituaries&_r=0
Anne Hemenway
February 27, 2015
Russell D. Hemenway - Washington Post obit:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/russell-d-hemenway-legislative-reformer-dies-at-88/2014/01/31/ce121960-8a90-11e3-833c-33098f9e5267_story.html
Anne Hemenway
February 27, 2015
Remembering my beloved Father, all his amazing work in the world, his laugh.
Jonathan Leahy
February 14, 2014
I had the opportunity to work with Russ at NCEC for seven years, beginning in 1990. Most of us on staff were young and ignorant but we knew we were fortunate to have a fearless and courageous lion in our presence. I'll always remember his humor, passion and dedication to fighting the good fight.
Marvin Kislak
February 14, 2014
Dear Anne,
When I heard about you Dad's passing, all I thought about was the fond memories that we all had while working at the NCEC in NYC, in the 1970's. Your dad was one of the most inspirational people who was part of my life. He taught me much about politics, both national and local. about New York City and most important about dealing with people. He always found time to spend with me during his busy schedule.
When I had been promoted to the position as Controller, Assistant Treasurer, his encouragement to learn, grow and assist in managing NCEC, led me to a professional carrier in working for a CPA firm.
Even though , I had left in the October 1980, I had "stayed in touch" and followed your dad and the NCEC through the internet and the public documents filed with the Federal Election Commission. It always gave me pride, knowing that the organization grew in funds and influence. And most important, Russell D. Hemenway, was in charge.
I heard about you Dad's passing, when I was in Chicago, on a business trip. Bob Beckel, gave a moving tribute on "The Five" on Fox network. I read all of the Obituaries that were found on the internet. Unfortunately, I could not attend the service. But, I was there in spirit. As I am sure, that all who had worked with your dad at the NCEC, were all there also.
May you find comfort in knowing and learning about how your Dad had touched the lives of untold number of people, throughout the years. May you find comfort in knowing that your Dad was one of the most influential people in American politics. May you find comfort in knowing that you Dad is now peaceful and comfortable, surrounded by loved ones who will lead him to his final resting place.
Mary Alice LaPoint
February 13, 2014
We watch the weather with great anticipation, and pray that the skys clear and my daughter Claire and I head south (west?) to pick up Alice, who wants so much to pay her last respects to Hemmy, who was so good to her. Alice Boyce LaPoint Smith, wife of late-great-best-friend Richard L. Smith, will be there if we can arrange it.
Minda Lonsdale
February 13, 2014
The world has lost a courageous thinker, who was way ahead of his time, and I have lost my close companion who gave me the greatest gift of all, Our son Brent! Unbeknownst to a lot of our friends, he stayed in constant contact with us with his great lovely daughter Anne who inherited his strong, liberal spirit and was a loving sister to Brent throughout! Russell, Anne, Brent, I and my husband Norman Lonsdale, who in the meantime, has also passed on, turned out to be what is today called--amusingly to my ears-- a patchwork-family. One driven by commitment and love. These emotions turned even more intense when Brent and his wife Christina had their first son, Alexander Scott, now 7 years old and 15 month old Maverick Douglas. Already frail after a fall, Russell insisted to visit last Thanksgiving in Ann Arbor to be there to celebrate Maverick's first birthday. His legacy will be written in history books. And in our hearts.and I am so glad that his noble name is carried on into the future by his children and our grandchildren. We miss him!
Minda Feliciano Lonsdale
February 8, 2014
February 8, 2014
Tom Kilcoyne
February 8, 2014
I'm very sorry for your loss. "Hemmy" and my father were friends from the time they were 4. Along with their friend "Cy" Smith they had great adventures as kids and stayed in contact with each other their whole lives. What an interesting life he lived and what a loyal friend for 85 years.
Ione Ione
February 6, 2014
a wonderful timeless spirit who has done so much for the world . I feel the beauty of his mind, his presence. Sending ease and strength to all the family. IONE
Joshua Sills
February 6, 2014
My deepest condolences to his family. I will miss his friendship, presence and work.
Anne Hemenway
February 5, 2014
Rest in peace my beautiful, beloved Daddo. xx I love you xx Anno
Caroline (Muffin) Cunningham-Thompson
February 5, 2014
I feel privileged to have worked for Russ in the late 70s at the NCEC. I worked as his assistant in the New York office, and after four years moved to Washington DC where I worked in that office. He was a brilliant, charming man. I learned so much about the world of politics from Russ. I can truly say that he is the reason I am the liberal I am today. A few years ago I sent my then 27-year-old son to hear Russ speak in Manhattan. What a difference that evening made in my son's life. I'm thankful that he had the opportunity to introduce himself to Russ and to give him my love.
My deepest sympathy to you, Anne. How lucky you are to have had such a wonderful man for a father.
Peter S Dufault
February 4, 2014
Russell was a crusader for fairness and honor in politics and a true friend - He could have been a states-man himself had he chosen that life but instead he labored to make our government more fair, truly representative and answerable to the people. Peter Scott Dufault
Stephen John Jordan
February 4, 2014
Rest in Peace
Michael Cavallo
February 4, 2014
One of my favorite parts of FCG Board meetings was getting to talk with Russ a bit before the meetings and gaining the benefit of his political insight, engaging manner, and deep experience. He is missed.
Alison Harris
February 4, 2014
In memory of Russ, a man of great love and wisdom who devoted his life to helping mediate the difficult terrain of politics. May his example lead others to follow this critical path.
Sue Halbren Byrnes
February 3, 2014
I met Russell when I was a young girl at the Lexington Democratic Club. His best friend, Dick Brown, was married to my best friend, Vivian Brown, Dick's wife. Russell spoke at the Brown's daughter's wedding in D.C., and also at Dick Brown's funeral also in D.C.
He was my mentor when starting to volunteer in politics, and a wonderful human being.
He'll be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him.
Lisa Sokolov
February 2, 2014
We have lost a beautiful man who made the world a better place. A life dedicated to good and one pointed in his vision of a better world and in the potential of human beings. Not to mention a classy handsome smart guy.
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