Michael Russell

Michael Russell, son of Maxine and Richard Russell, was born in Columbus, Ohio on April 12, 1967.  A fraternal twin, Michael was born two minutes after his sister Michele.

Michael was a quiet and reserved child.  He has been quoted by his classmates as being “the quiet cool dude.”  He was always described as funny and was well known for his ability to make others laugh, a quality he kept well into adulthood.

Michael graduated from Eastmoor High School in 1985, after which he enlisted in the United States Navy at the age of 18.  He retired from the military as a Chief in 2009 after serving 24 years.  While in the navy, Michael graduated college from Saint Leo University with two degrees: A Masters in Business Administration and a Bachelors in Psychology.  He married his wife, Gala, in 1989 and went on to father 3 beautiful children.  He used his time and resources to ensure his family was well cared for. He spent a lot of his free time with his wife and had recently made plans to road trip across the country visiting various bowling allies. He was a great father and ensured he was there for all the important milestones for his children.  He took them bowling, to the movies and ultimately just hung out with them throughout their childhood.

When Michael was not busy working or providing for his family, he enjoyed bowling and volunteering as a youth bowling coach.  Every Saturday morning for 15+ years, he could be found in the local bowling allies coaching.  He is credited with helping dozens of kids go to college on bowling scholarships.

Unexpectedly Michael was diagnosed with an aggressive form of colon cancer in June 2022.  He fought hard and stayed positive about the diagnosis but on September 17, 2022 he succumbed to the disease.  His children were at his side when he exited the world for Heaven.  His legacy will remember him as a funny, fun loving man who was kind to all he knew.

Left to cherish his memories are his family: his wife of 33 years Gala, his 3 children Taylor, Evan and Carrington, his mother Maxine, his sister Michele and a 2 year old grandson Michael, who was named after him.  He was a loving husband, a dedicated father and grandfather, adoring son and brother and a great friend to everyone he knew.

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