His character and spirit were infused with strong moral fiber and integrity that included sprinkles of a fun loving jokester. These qualities defined how "Harky," as he was known by his friends, exhibited his charm and impish charisma. He never sugar coated or engaged in manipulative strategies. "What you see is what you get." He politely spoke his piece. Yet had a difficult time in being critical or adversarial as he had a gentile nature about him.
Russell wore many hats with a myriad of unique personas throughout his life. A husband to Judy, his one and only true love; a father to Meg and Josh, and to Meg’s other half, Jon, his family always came first. He spoke often of how proud he was of his family and how wonderful his children had grown into fine young adults.
Harky was taught at an early age by his parents to unquestionably be mindful of others, and to treat all with the greatest respect. He spoke of how he strived to instill these virtues and attributes into his family. A devoted husband, father and son, you could not often engage Harky in a casual conversation that he didn’t speak of anecdotes of his family; including Bailey, the family dog who is privileged to be one of the family. You would often see Harky driving in the neighborhood in his red pick-up with Bailey owning the passenger seat just like asters pet horse.
He proudly expressed his gratitude and spoke of being humbled to be a fireman and serving the community by way of his many roles he played throughout his 35 years in the company and truckroom. As an Ed Keller award recipient, he often spoke of how honored he was to be recognized for this prestigious accolade. But his membership became especially rewarding after becoming a leader in the Fire District. He did what he set out to do, follow in his father’s (Oscar) footsteps. And now, he is with The Father.
He never shied from speaking his piece yet did so in a way not to offend others. It was easy to be friends with Harky because he displayed a sincere, honest and warmhearted congeniality. His friendship and loyalty extended to all from the fire company; yet transcended to deeper friendships with those he had known for many years. You really knew that you and Harky were simpatico when he removed a certain appendage from his beyond his lips and presented you with a very special view of his bogus choppers.
Beyond his immediate family he loved to hang around the fire hall especially when there was a little Southern Comfort and Vermouth under the bar (he loved those Manhattan’s)! I will always remember Harky standing at the squad bench after a call in the afternoon and he would say, I’ll meet you in the back for a quick one. He had a built in automatic alarm when it became time to return home…..without looking at a clock, he instinctively knew when Judy would be home and he had to be there to greet her. There may have been one or two lapsed times when Judy arrived home first; then we would miss his presence at the hall for a week or so.
He would often talk about going fishin’ and loved Lake Chautauqua, he enjoyed the sport, but he invariably threw-back his captured fish, providing a just pardon. He had a tremendous gift for forgiveness even when personally aggrieved. With one exception, those pesky squirrels in his backyard for whom he sought out and administered certain justice.
Like everyone, Harky did not have all the answers and messed up a little. Like the time he spilled a cola pop on the new white rug in his living room and tried to clean it up with a red rag that bled out on the carpet. It is difficult to recount the countless stories and fond memories of our interactions with Harky but anecdotes are being reminisced in special times and places as we talk about those personal stories that start out like, "I remember the time when Harky….."
Harky had a special means, unique to him, that helped to resolve difficult issues and dilemmas. He had a built-in, almost magical compass that pointed in a very special direction…….straight up. He would privately seek counsel with Oscar, with whom he always had a loving and respectful relationship. He would quire what his father would do; and followed that sage direction. This private consultation helped him to succeed throughout his life and showed him the path to righteousness.
When you’re faced with a difficult decision or angst to do the right thing which is unpopular and even carries the vehemence of a less than righteous few; remember to look up for guidance from your brother fireman in the heavens….you’ll be fortified with the courage to act in the right direction….and oh, by the way, be sure to give a little smile.
