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- On May 1, 2020, Duane Harwood Russell, 91, of Burt, NY, passed away peacefully. Duane was born in Appleton in 1928 and graduated from Barker High school.
Married for almost 69 years to Lena (Haight) Russell, they had five children and raised three foster children. During their life together, they also provided a loving, temporary home for dozens of additional foster children.
In the early 1950's, Duane started a water ski club in Olcott where he and some friends would perform trick skiing and built a ski jump. He even made and sold his own water skis. He worked on the family farm, Russell Farms, finally retiring at the age of 84. He could often be found around town delivering apples, tomatoes, or corn to neighbors and friends. He was an avid ice fisherman and deer hunter, and in 1981 got a deer that entered him into the NY State Big Buck Club. This was something he was very proud of. He loved attending Buffalo Bills games and was a season ticket holder from the very beginning. At their cottage on Lake Ontario, he enjoyed being with his family, playing volleyball, teaching people to water ski, and making the best barbecued chicken for family and friends. He played an active role in his children's and grandchildren's lives. Over the years, he donated countless gallons of blood to the Red Cross. He continues giving by donating his body to the University at Buffalo Medical School.
Duane was preceded in death by his wife, Lena (2017); and five of his six siblings. He leaves behind his brother, Raymond (Judy) Russell; and his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren to continue his storytelling, Michael Russell, William Wells, Anthony Wells, Virginia Russell, Michelle (Thomas) Stone, Daniel (Judith) Russell, Susan (Kenneth) Birkbeck, Cynthia (Craig Romanowski) Russell-Ersing; 13 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
Due to Covid-19 restrictions, there will be no services at this time. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
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1928 - 2020 (91 years)