Donald R. Russett, 87

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Donald Roger Russett, 87, of Bradford Street, North Adams, died on Wednesday, February 1, 2017, at North Adams Commons surrounded by his loving wife and family.

He was born on February 14, 1929, in North Adams, a son of the late Lawrence and Viola (Richards) Russett. He attended schools in North Adams, including Drury High School. He was a decorated Veteran of the Korean Conflict, serving with the US Army as a Corporal during the occupation in Germany. He was employed for 47 years as a signal maintainer for the Boston and Maine Railroad, retiring in 1991. 

Mr. Russett was an integral part in the formation of Northern Berkshire Youth Hockey. He was a past president and board member. He also served as a long time coach for the Tomcats. He was a member of the VFW in North Adams and a member of Post 125, American Legion in North Adams. He was an avid gardener.

Survivors include his wife, Dorothy Jean (Bigelow) Russett, whom he married on May 14, 1951. He leaves a son, Larry Russett and his wife Jane of Adams as well as two daughters, Patricia Mendocha and her husband Paul of North Adams and Dr. Susan Russett-Collett of Gorham, Maine. He also leaves four grandchildren, Brandon and Jeremy Collett, Sarah Sawyer and her husband Ryan and Laura Russett; a sister, Janice Tanner of North Adams, as well as several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by a sister, Marjorie Harvey; and two brothers, Lawrence and Richard Russett.

Funeral notice: A funeral service for Donald Russett will be held at the Flynn and Dagnoli-Montagna Home for Funerals, West Chapel, 521 West Main Street, on Monday February 6, 2017, at 1 p.m.

A calling hour will be held on Monday afternoon from noon to 1 p.m. Burial will follow in Southview Cemetery. Donations in his memory may be made to the Adult Day Health Center in North Adams through the funeral home.