William A Russell

William A. Russell passed away peacefully November 15, 2024 at his son’s home in Marana, Arizona where he had been residing following a decline in his health.

He was born on November 1, 1934 in San Rafael, California to the late Charles Russell and Louise Huber Russell, and he grew up in Forest Knolls, California.

He graduated from Marin Catholic High School in 1953 and received a Bachelor of Science degree from Western Oregon University in 1959. In 1974 he received a Master of Social Work degree from Marywood University in Scranton, PA.  He served six years in the California and Oregon National Guard.  He later served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh).

He was married to Cynthia Ochs at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Crown, PA on April29,1967, and she survives.

For 34 years he served as a Social Worker in public welfare, child welfare, long term care, and mental health. He began his career at Lorain County Ohio Welfare Department. He retired from Northwest Human Services in 2004. During his career, he served as Director of Jefferson County Children and Youth Services for 15 years in Brookville, PA.

He was a member of St. Dominic Church in Sigel, PA.  He was a member of Knights of Columbus Council, 3966 and Fourth Degree Assembly 956.  As a member of the Knights of Columbus, he served as Grand Knight, Financial Secretary, District Deputy, and Insurance agent.

He was active in the PA Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers, serving on the State Board from 2000 to 2003. He was a dedicated to environmental protection, maintaining membership in Sierra Club, National Wildlife Federation, The Nature Conservancy, and Save the Redwoods League.  He was active in the Pittsburgh Chapter of the German American National Congress, and established the Brookville Subchapter in 2009

Throughout his life, he was interested in learning and understanding different cultures. As a result of his interest, he and his wife hosted individuals from countries around the world including Chile, India, Germany, and Canada.  They traveled extensively in Europe, and Central America, and South America.

He enjoyed hiking especially in the coastal region of Marin County, California where he grew up.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, George Russell of Las Animas, Colorado.

He is survived by his wife, and son, Marc Charles Russell and wife (Panita), and granddaughter, Sophia of Marana, AZ,

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to a charity of one’s choice.