It’s sad the loss of one so young
A life unlived a heart unsung
I met Russell about four years ago in a place I tend to spend to much time. Those older and supposedly wiser who visit there tend to lose their grasp upon reality, but he never did. Always flippant and as some thought rude, I soon discovered he had a big heart and felt most of the normal things we all do but was better at seeming not to than most. I once hurt his feelings by accident and it soon became evident that he wasn’t missing anything said, but he chose what to reply to and what to let go. Ever since that incident I made a point of inquiring how he was and what he was up to. He was far better skilled in many things computer related than I am, and always tried to help others to understand.
His interest in motorcycles was well known to us all and several of us cautioned him to be careful while riding, and more so since he had several close calls and incidents. I knew that he was shy in life but on the internet he could be bold and decisive, and I’m sure had he been given time he would have been in life as well. He seemed well able to master any skills that interested him and would have had a fine career in the Navy or whatever field he chose.
I’m a parent and my first thoughts go out to his parents and his family. It’s truly terrible to lose a child, and nothing will heal their sorrow but time.
I have no idea if you will ever see this, but if you do I hope it gladdens you a bit to know Russell touched so many people in so many walks of life. You have my heart felt condolences.
To the others who knew him through the internet I can only say that he lives on as long as we remember him. So we must, he deserves a long life.
Rest he there in clouds on high
A shining light to guide us by