We all know that my Dad struggled with alcoholism. In fact, complications due to alcoholism ended his life. I want to take a few moments to address this issue. Russell has had problems with alcoholism for as long as I can remember, but for many years he hid it well and most will remember him as the life and soul of the party, and the man who loved to entertain! He loved any excuse for a celebration. Sadly later in life several events caused his problem to spiral, many tried to help him and I am grateful for that. Sadly he couldn’t admit that he needed help even when he was hospitalised. While I am sad and angry that my dad struggled with alcohol, today, I'm choosing to remember the Dad who danced with us in the kitchen, let us ride around on his back as kids, who cooked us delicious roast dinners and taught me how to use a hammer and a drill. I want to use this opportunity to encourage others to get help with their addictions. So, if you are struggling with an addiction to alcohol or other substances, please reach out to someone. If my Dad had done this maybe we wouldn’t be saying goodbye earlier than necessary. Rest in Peace Dad. The number for AA is - 0800 9177 650

Thank you for setting up this memorial to Russell. We hope that you find it a positive experience developing the site and that it becomes a place of comfort and inspiration for you to visit whenever you want or need to.

I am I and you are you, whatever we were to each other that we still are. Speak to me in the easy way which you always used. Why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight? Life means all that it ever meant, it is the same as it ever was.