I did mast on Russtine for a few seasons, at Ramsgate week, Burnham, the RORC, EAORA and JOG races.I worked at the EDEC in Gosport, in that crazy warehouse. I was only 17 - 19 I think. I am so sad to hear about Russells passing. Russell was always desperate to win the Town Cup. One year - ? 88 we nearly did. Russtine was a lovely boat, had new Relling sails, a lightweight genoa. We sailed a great race, our sail changes were slick, it went from lumpy and grey to quiet. Coming back up the river, we thought it was in the bag. The wind filled in from behind and we were pipped.. (by a Sigma 38? I really can't remember).We'd worked so hard, and I was really pissed off. Russell tho' - he waved to them, shouted well done. That was the kind of man he was. I am really saddened to hear that he's passed away. he was a bloody decent bloke. I also sailed on Hops, so knew a bit about the 79 Fastnet. Sail on mate. David Blee, Cowra, NSW, Australia.

I can not express my sorrow at the passing of Russ, he was a kind, caring person who could disarm even the worst disposition, and allowed so many people to be close to him and his family. I first met Russ in New Jersey, my dad told me we were going to have a visitor for a while, to learn the reprographic machine business, well my first thought was great, some kid from England I have to babysit, well, it turned out to be one of the great relationships I have had in my life. Russ and I were like brothers, we worked together, played sports together "I just could never beat that guy in tennis to save my life" went to New York to see the sights, Broadway plays, sporting events, "we both loved to go see the New York Rangers hockey team at Madison Square Garden" and doing just about anything two teenage boys would do, have a few drinks, chase a few girls, and just have a general good time. Russ had a way about himself that at the time to me, was very mature, and we all wanted to trade places with him, when my friends sister asked him out on a date "we all wanted to go out with her" and he walked in so cooly, yeah, thats right, I'm going out, lucky guy. I was lucky enough to get to visit Russ and his mom and dad in London for a couple of weeks, which was just a blast, and they still spoke to me afterward, so I'm guessing it was ok, but I remember how kind and welcoming they were to me, just real down to earth great people, who I will always hold a place in my heart for. For quite some time Russ and I did not communicate, I was busy, he was busy, I moved, on and on but when he finally contacted me in Idaho, I was just thrilled, and we made plans to meet, which we did in 2007, and it was like we were never apart, we got along and picked up right where we left off, laughing and joking and just having such a great time. We enjoyed seeing Russ, Chris, Steve and James, and my heavy heart goes out to them, and I pray they do not become strangers, please keep in touch, and of course to Russells mom Dorothy, my deepest sympathys, and know that God will take care of Stan and Russ, two great men. thank you all love Dwight Kurek

I would just like to thank al those who have paid there repsects to Russell on monday and through the cards and letters that my mum has received. Monday was a very sad, emotional and very moving day. We did think that the funeral would be big but we didn't know how big. It was lovely to see so many people there on monday. I also think that the memories that Ken and John spoke about was a very moving tribute. It was so nice to hear and see so many people that thought so much of Russ. He was a great man and he will always be missed by so many people. Thank you all again as your words have been a great help to us all especially my mum. Good night Russ God Bless see you in my dreams love you Sam xx