By Moshe Tamssot on behalf of the Monks of Invention:

When I think of Russ, I can’t help but think of this picture. Full throttle on Lake Austin, iPhone clipped to his belt, a very functional hat, and a timepiece strapped to his wrist while relaxing. The man was O.N. – Original Nerd – and I loved him for it.

He was realer than real. For all he accomplished, he remained humble and soft spoken, grounded in his farm roots and sensibilities. If there were chores to be done, he’d be the first to tackle them, shooing away any offers of help. If there was a problem to solve, you could count on him to be the first at your side. He would do anything for his family. Anything.

In a culture obsessed with food, he found culinary joy in a Costco “Pizza Pie”. He was the only person I’ve ever known that actually called pizza, “Pizza Pie”. And he relished that pie as much as any celebrity chef’s creation. He reminded me that simple can be subtle, and that who you’re sharing a meal with, is more important than the meal itself. We shared a lot of great meals together.

What I’ll remember most about Russ, is the generosity of his heart. He opened his doors to a stranger, welcomed me in as a friend, and made me feel a part of his family. I’ll never be able to thank Russ, Cecilia, Eric and Laura enough for that. As often as I share the story of our meeting, I still can’t believe it. It is a story of serendipity that is still unfolding, and I wish he was here to help write the next chapter.

On behalf of myself, and the Monks of Invention, we will miss you Russ, and take comfort knowing that you will find your way.

 Formal Obituary Located Here