Russell Whittemore

July 7, 1941 – April 18, 2013

The following is from Russ’s daughter Wendy. The family has decided to not publish an obituary.

Good afternoon everyone, I am very saddened to tell you that Russ passed away this morning around 10 am. He was at peace holding his wife’s hand. Last night I spent a lot of time with him listening to the Penguins game, he was alert and we talked. This morning, his breathing was so labored and he finally let himself go into God’s hands.

Bonnie, Chris, Dwight and I thank you all for the prayers, thoughts and well wishes. It was a difficult time but we can all be at peace knowing this was his choice and his time. A memorial service is being planned possibly for the weekend of May 4,  we will send an announcement about that soon. In lieu of cards or flowers, if you wish to remember Russ you may make a donation to the American Lung Association or a charity of your choice.

On a light note, Bonnie wanted you all to know that Russ is going to be cremated with a Terrible Towel and a yellow rose sent by her friend Mary Pam (he used to grow roses). It was a last minute thought..and we thought rather silly at the moment. But it turns out, when we were mentioning this to the funeral director, he rolled up his sleeve and had a Steeler logo tattooed on his arm (we are in Nashville, remember). You have to know, we “randomly” chose this company from several options. So Russ will be in VERY good hands until the very end J (enough of those Ravens fans….we all know God loves the Steelers!!).

Again, thank you all for your support. We know that Russ was very well loved and he said a few days ago, “I had a good life.” He certainly did.

wendy whittemore