Eric P. (Russ) Russell

It is with heavy heartsthe family and friendsof Eric (Russ) Russell mourn his passing on Tuesday, October 4, 2016, unexpectedly at his residence.
He was born in Tupper Lake on June 15, 1963, the son of Ralph and Charlotte Churco Russell, and attended Tupper Lake schools, where he had perfect attendance.
Eric received his Associate's Degree in Plumbing and Heating from SUNY Canton where he was a member of the ZAP Fraternity.
He was employed with O'Brien Plumbing and Heating in Utica for over thirty years, after moving to the Utica area in the 1980's.
Eric was known for his love of sports, having been a fan of the Miami Dolphins, the LA Dodgers and Boston Bruins. He was also a huge Van Halen fan. He loved the Adirondacks, where he spent every Memorial Day, camping for the past 30 years. Eric also enjoyed being home, just sitting around the fireplace in the backyard.
He leaves behind his significant other, Kathy Synakowski of Schuyler, and her mother, Lillian, as well her siblings, Gary and Kathy Synakowski, Rick Snakowski, and Karen Sharpe; his father, Ralph, of Tupper Lake; his sisters, Eve and David Dakin, of MA, Ellen and Michael Duffy, of Long Island; and his godson, Zachary Dakin.
Eric also leaves behind many other relatives, as well as his lifelong friends, Witte, Dewey, Ham, Geno, Frankie, Griff, Goss, Darryl and their families; and his feline companions, Sabre and Nicky.
He was predeceased by his mother, Charlotte.
Eric was compassionate, loving and kind to all people he came into contact with.
Arrangements were in care of Kowalczyk Funeral Home, 284 Main St., New York Mills. A Funeral Mass was celebrated in Tupper Lake.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Steven Swan Humane Society, 5664 Horatio St., Utica, N.Y. 13502.