It is with great sorrow to say that Russ Hamilton, the proud Purdue graduate and owner of Hamilton cellars has passed away. Russ just made it past his 71st birthday and was born in Sullivan, Indiana. He died in Richland, Washington on November 27th, 2023.

He was born to Betty and John Hamilton who Russ always felt so loved and supported by his whole life. He also has two siblings, Cathy Aunet (72) and Ray Hamilton (63). As a kid, Russ could always be found building forts and treehouses from scrap lumber his father would get him, as well as picking on his siblings, Cathy and Ray. He attended Sullivan High School before studying Mechanical Engineering at Purdue University and worked at Chevron Chemical making fertilizer. As he moved up the ranks at Chevron, it entailed moving him and his family across the country. They lived in Mississippi, Iowa, California, back to Iowa, and then eventually ended up in Washington State. This was all in a span of 10 years. After a long career in the fertilizer industry, Russ transitioned to the production of silicon solar panels which allowed him to travel and live in China and Korea for multiple years. Eventually, he and his wife Stacy decided to take a leap of faith and get into the wine industry, which led them to opening Hamilton Cellars. This truly became Russ’s pride and joy, and he would talk anyone’s ear off about what all went into the creation of Hamilton Cellars.

Russ had three kids with his first late wife Teresa. Crystal Grammar (49) married to Michael Grammar, Craig Hamilton (47) married to Dawn Hamilton, and Carrie Storlie (44) married to Kevin Storlie. Russ loved his kids tremendously, and always made his kids’ friends feel welcomed to his home. Russ loved to coach his kids’ sports teams as well and was so proud of their accomplishments in both academics and athletics.

Russ later married his late wife, Stacy Hamilton. He became a proud stepfather to Kevin Walker (44) married to Heather Walker and Meghan Bingham (42). They spent their days drinking wine on their beautiful property that was always booming with wine goers. Russ spent the last two and a half years missing Stacy tremendously, so it’s safe to say he’s thrilled to be back with her.

Russ also has 9 grandchildren who he loved dearly. Makenzie Howes (22) married to Nolan Howes, Caden Hamilton (20), Addison Walker (17), Westin Walker (15), Lillian Bingham (15), Bennett Walker (12), Zachary Grammar(12), Breckan Bingham(11), Landin Walker(10).

Russ had many pets throughout his life, but his dog Sophie was arguably his favorite. She was his buddy until the very end and enjoyed frequent car rides to coffee shops and her monthly spa trips that Russ always made sure she never missed. Even after he passed, he made sure there were people ready to take her.

Russ will always be remembered for his passion for work and sarcastic comments. We’ll always imagine hearing him say that he got us chukar cherries on sale, or that he found a really good deal on Temu. We couldn’t have asked for a better dad, brother, or grandpa and Russ will be missed every day. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

Russ was preceded in death by his parents John and Betty Hamilton, wife Teresa and lastly his wife Stacy. He is survived by his siblings, children, stepchildren, and grandchildren.

Russ’ funeral will take place on January 4th at Einan’s funeral home at 2pm. It is open to all of those who wish to attend.