Eugene T. Russell

Left Formation October 15, 2021

Eugene Russell, age 102, passed away in Albuquerque on October 15, 2021. Gene, born Eugeniusz Rusinowicz, was called "Geno" by his many grandchildren. Gene was born in 1919 in Hamtramck (in Detroit), Michigan, often called "Little Warsaw". His mother was a devout Catholic and his father was a socialist, who also knew about tree grafting, mushroom foraging and making his own vodka and kielbasa. Gene was named after Eugene Debs, the popular socialist who helped unionize auto workers in Detroit.

Gene was the smartest child in his first grade class, sitting in the first seat (as children were then ranked by seating), even though he knew little English. In high school his athleticism was noticed by Jean Hoxie who discovered and coached future tennis champions. In 1937 he was her star player. Hamtramck was then the "Holy Grail" of tennis. In fact, Gene was nationally ranked and won the National Public Parks tournament in doubles.

He then served in WWII and was a lead navigator flying B-17's with the 95th Bombardment Group. Of his 29 missions, one of his planes was called "The Spirit of New Mexico", foreshadowing his future. On his very first mission he saw his best friend shot down in the plane beside him.

When he returned from the war, Gene got a master's degree in Economics from the University of Michigan. He started a family and was married for 75 years to Helen Russell, a charismatic and sought after elementary school teacher in Albuquerque. She was attracted to Gene's intellect, his kindness, and his good looks. They moved from Michigan to Washington state and then to New Mexico where Gene worked for the Atomic Energy Commission on Sandia Base. When he retired he became a collector and trader of Native American jewelry and art. He was known by other collectors for his keen eye to pick out the most unique and quality pieces.

Tennis remained Gene's passion. When he moved to New Mexico he was one of the best players in the state. He was a founder of the Albuquerque Tennis Club and then helped promote the Lobo Tennis Club. He helped develop many young players who went on to play collegiate tennis, including his sons Ted and Tim and grandson Kyle. Gene played against the best, he coached the best- but he would also play with or help anyone he liked.

Gene always kept his eye on the prize, whether a spectacular tennis shot, an amazing piece of Native American jewelry, directions to his pilot, or just the right words timed to illuminate a situation. Most important though, his children and grandchildren saw him as a model who inspired them to live with integrity and resourcefulness. For any of his children and grandchildren who wanted to attend "Gene Russell University", he taught them liberal arts, history and politics.

Gene is survived by his children Christina Lapides (Harvey) of Oakland, CA, Tim Russell (Marcia) of Albuquerque, and Wendy Russell- Davis of Albuquerque. Geno is survived by his grandchildren: Amy Lapides, Heather Lapides, Katy Engbrecht, Kyle Russell, Brittany O'Brien, Derek Slade, Drew Davis, Madison Davis, Michael Davis, Reese Russell-Frayer, and Molly Christensen. Geno has 11 great-grandchildren. He is predeceased by his wife Helen, his sons Tony Russell and Ted Russell, and his grandson Max Slade. Special appreciation to Michelle and Clare for their presence and care over the years.

Gene would want to send his enduring love "until we meet again."

Published by Albuquerque Journal from Nov. 28 to Dec. 5, 2021.