Russell C. Taylor

Russ Taylor was born in Cleveland, Ohio, where he lived most of his life. After serving in the Army during World War II, Russ was a machinist at TRW for over 30 years. He was a hardworking man and very supportive father, whether it was being a Boy Scouts' leader, attending sporting events, or making personal sacrifices to send his children to private schools.

In July, 2001, Russ moved to Richland to be near his son's family. His son, Jim, daughter-in law, Cheryl, and grandson, Geoff, reside in Richland; his granddaughter, Miranda, lives in Spokane. His daughter, Joanne, son-in-law, Bob, grandchildren, Lisa and Scott, and two great grandchildren are Ohio residents. Surviving siblings are Shirley Montrose of Oregon, and Jane Ames and Jack Taylor of Florida.

Living in his own apartment and making daily trips around town were absolute essentials for this man who treasured his independence and mobility. He rode Dial-A-Ride every day, becoming friends with passengers, drivers and dispatchers. He struck up conversations with folks at the mall, in restaurants and waiting rooms, or wherever he went. Russ had opinions on just about everything and loved to slip in corny jokes at every opportunity. When he ordered a ''Russburger'' at Burger King, they knew just what to cook. Despite his relatively short time in the Tri-Cities, he touched many lives and put smiles on numerous faces.

Russ passed away on February 21, 2004, three days before his eighty-first birthday. He was a ''character'' and will be greatly missed.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or the American Diabetes Association. Russ would be pleased to know that his pacemaker is being ''recycled'' and will go to someone in a third-world country. A memorial service will be held in May near Cleveland, Ohio.