Ralph Hila “Pinhead” Russell, 81, a life-long resident of Tupper Lake, passed away peacefully with family by his side on December 16, 2018

Born on November 2nd, 1937, the third child of Ralph “Bud” and Julia Miller Russell, Pin attended Tupper Lake Schools where he was a star athlete. He married Charlotte Churco on September 15, 1962, with whom he had three children: Eric Paul, Eve Marie, and Ellen Ann. Ralph obtained an Associates Degree from NCCC in 1971, and was an employee of the Village of Tupper Lake much of his life. Charlotte and Ralph were blessed with 50 years of marriage prior to Char’s passing in 2012.

Pinhead loved sports, music, food and coffee, but most of all, his’ family, friends, and hometown. He was a devoted Dad, Grampy, Son, Brother and Uncle. He left a legacy of hometown service including leadership in the TL School and BOCES boards, the TL Fire Dept, as a football booster, and a Ladyjack basketball coach. In his “spare” time he would often be found with his partner in crime (and brother) Michael, cooking for various fundraisers and other events throughout the community.Ralph fought Lewy Body Dementia to remain in public service until 2016.

Ralph is survived by two daughters. Eve M. (David) Dakin, of Harvard MA, and Ellen A (Michael) Russell Duffy, of Lindenhurst NY; his grandsons: Zachary R. Dakin and Russell W. Duffy; Seven siblings: Sally Poirier, William Russell, Nance (Dan) Green, Peg (Irv) Cole, Tom (Veronica) Russell, Michael Russell, and Sioux (Bob) Collier, also survived by many nieces, nephews and friends. Along with his parents and wife, Pin was predeceased by his son Eric, siblings John, Irene and Grace (Grammo)

The celebration of Ralph’s life was held on December 22, 2018 at St. Alphonsus church. Donations in Ralph’s memory can be made to:
Tupper Lake volunteer Ambulance and Emergency Squad, P.O. Box 901, Tupper Lake, New York 12986
Tupper Lake Volunteer Fire Department P.O. Box 849, TL NY 12986
Adirondack Adult Center P.O. Box 198 Tl, NY 12986