Madeline Marie Russell

1937 - 2024

Madeline Marie Russell
August 11, 1937 - November 21, 2024


Madeline Marie Russell, dearly beloved by her family and friends, passed away peacefully on November 21, 2024.

Born on August 11, 1937 in Los Angeles, California and raised in Glendale, California, Madeline was the daughter of the late James Bernard and Martha Texanna Martin and the sister of the late Theresa Ann Westbrook.

Madeline attended Glendale Community College and San Jose State University, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Natural Science and her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential. A dedicated and loving elementary school teacher for twenty-five years, Madeline had a passion for education and for making a difference in the lives of children. Throughout her career, Madeline sought to instill in her students the joy of learning and the value of education. Since Madeline taught in the Cupertino Union School District, which is located near Apple Computer Headquarters, she applied for and was given a grant to pilot Apple computers in her classroom. Not only did she become adept at computer technology and software, but she also trained and mentored her colleagues on the use of Apple computers and how to utilize them to enhance their students' learning. Madeline's students, many who were in the Gifted and Talented Program (GATE) as well as Newcomers to the United States, greatly benefited from her dedication, creativity, determination, expertise, resourcefulness, and love of learning.

Madeline remained active after she retired to Santa Rosa, California in 2000. She was an avid volunteer, dedicating her time to helping in the classrooms where her grandchildren attended school and contributing her efforts to the Luther Burbank Center as well as to the Charles M. Schultz Museum. As a member of the Fountaingrove Golf Club, Santa Rosa Newcomer's Club, Women's Golf Group, and the Flounder's Club, Madeline formed lasting friendships. Some of the many activities she pursued with her dear friends included traveling, playing golf, hosting and cooking for her gourmet group and book club, attending art exhibits, participating in films and lectures, going to water aerobics, and playing Bridge, Bunco and Mah Jongg. Madeline was passionate about art, especially working with watercolors and pastels, and found joy in expressing her creativity. In addition to her love for art, she had a deep love for travel and enjoyed exploring new places, both within the United States as well as abroad, whenever she could.

Madeline was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 66 years, Fred Donald "Don" Russell. Together, they shared a lifetime of love, adventures, and memories. Madeline was a kind, caring person who treasured her family. She will be dearly missed by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who knew her. Her generous heart, joyful spirit, and the love she gave to others will always be remembered.

Madeline is survived by her children, Linda, Gregory (Donna), and Karen (Brian), her grandchildren, Celeste (Javier), Mario (Anne), Michael (Megan), Brian, Scott (Sydney), Meghan (Corey), Daniel, and Maxwell, and her great-grandchildren, Félix and Fox. She is also survived by her sister-in-law Dian, nephews Chris (Christopher) and Richard, niece Jennifer (Jerry), and their respective families.

Madeline's legacy of kindness, her love for life, and her unwavering devotion to her family and friends will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her and her memory will forever be cherished.