Dear Betty and family, I had the opportunity to work with Russell in the 1970's at the Colonial Hilton Inn in Pittsfield. As an aspiring hotelier and student back then, I will never forget Russell taking time with me after school interpreting my ciriculum into "how the hotel business really operated." I was a bellman at the time and Russell always gave me the opportunity to learn from him. I appreciated his kindness, sense of fair play, hard work, dedication and ability to connect with people. He was a fine man and early mentor for me. I will remember you in my thoughts and prayers.