Next to a woman's heart, the most previous possession that ever comes to a man in this world is someone to call "Best Friend." For much of my married life, Russ was my Best Friend. Over the years we shared many interests: traveling, good music, good wine and our extended family. During his all too-short lifetime, Russ had acquired a sort of wisdom of the heart, for he never fooled himself; he knew who he was; he spoke the truth in his heart. An ancient rabbinic tradition teaches that such as value refers to a person who follows the truth even when it is known only to himself.
Another rabbinic saying is, "You can't tell the size of an evergreen until it is cut down." That certainly was the case with Russ. How many of us misunderstood him? For many years, I know that I did. He was wiser than we gave him credit. He certainly gave of himself much more than was given to him.
The legacy that Russ left behind is a living legacy -- his family, all the students he helped (in college and in church). If we take time to examine his legacy, we find it to be impressive indeed. What wonderful examples of values and behavior he left us. For many, our values shape our aspirations. Russ had simpler values -- to care for his family, to learn something new everyday, to live life to its fullest. He was a kind and good human being. I'm proud to have called him my Best Friend.
/From Ira
In memory of Russell J. Francisco
Adored grandfather, beloved dad and loving husband, Russell Joseph Francisco passed away unexpectedly on Aug. 5, 2009. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Marge; son, Mark (wife Laraine); daughter, Nancy Francisco-Welke (husband John); son David (wife Anita);, grandchildren, Conor, Ali, Cayla, Noah, and Benjamin, and twin brother, Roger.
Russell deeply touched the lives of many people, including extended family, neighbors, colleagues and friends around the world. He was a small business owner for 35 years before starting a teaching career at Seton Hall University. He retired as captain of the Scotch Plains volunteer fire department and was an active supporter of several philanthropic organizations. Russell was an avid gardener, cyclist, hiker, amateur naturalist and a great lover of Florida's nature.
Russell lived life to the absolute fullest and while he left it too early, he left it doing something he enjoyed, at a place he loved, surrounded by people who adored him.
His funeral ceremony was held at on Aug. 8, 2009 at Church of the Ascension in Bradley Beach. Gifts in Russell's name may still be made to The Conservancy of Southwest Florida (http://www.conservancy.org/).
Link to the Aug 7th obituary
Russell deeply touched the lives of many people, including extended family, neighbors, colleagues and friends around the world. He was a small business owner for 35 years before starting a teaching career at Seton Hall University. He retired as captain of the Scotch Plains volunteer fire department and was an active supporter of several philanthropic organizations. Russell was an avid gardener, cyclist, hiker, amateur naturalist and a great lover of Florida's nature.
Russell lived life to the absolute fullest and while he left it too early, he left it doing something he enjoyed, at a place he loved, surrounded by people who adored him.
His funeral ceremony was held at on Aug. 8, 2009 at Church of the Ascension in Bradley Beach. Gifts in Russell's name may still be made to The Conservancy of Southwest Florida (http://www.conservancy.org/).
Link to the Aug 7th obituary
Friday, January 7, 2011
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