Robert D. Russell

ROBERT D. RUSSELL

GRAPEVINE,Tx./COHOCTON-Robert D. Russell, 67, of Grapevine TX, formerly of Cohocton, while visiting his sister in Avoca, passed away Sunday (May 9, 2010) at the Syracuse V.A. Hospital.
Russ was appointed to West Point after graduation from Cohocton Central School, but because of his eye sight, he was unable to accept the appointment. After a short time attending Alfred State College, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1962 and retired in 1983 as a Lieutenant and was awarded the Navy Commendation Metal. While in the Navy he graduated from Chaminade University in Hawaii with a BA degree in Business. Upon retiring from the Navy he earned an MBA from Indiana University and started a career in the telecommunication field specializing in 9-1-1.
As an expert in telecommunications and research, Russ was a key team member integrating the nation’s 9-1-1 systems and wireless location services allowing for 9-1-1 dispatchers to locate cell phone users in time of emergency. His command of the subject matter afforded him key authorship and was a contributor to many publications on emergency communications, including the National Emergency Number Association’s 9-1-1 Report Card to the Nation which was submitted to the United States Congress in a ceremony on September 11, 2001, literally moments before the terrorist attacks.
His hobbies including reading, photography and wine.
He was predeceased by his father, John G. Russell of Hammondsport and his mother Marie Russell Sprague of Wayland.
Surviving are his wife of 44 years, Judith A. Russell of Grapevine, TX; his son, Robert Jr. of Virginia and his sister, Helen Russell Lyke of Avoca.
Calling hours are from 3-5 p.m. Friday at the Avoca Funeral Home, 22 N. Main St., Avoca, where a funeral and committal service will be held following calling hours at 5 p.m. Friday. Interment will be in the Bath National Cemetery. A memorial service will be held at a later date in Grapevine, TX.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing may contribute in his memory to the Avoca Volunteer Ambulance Corps, 3Chase St., Avoca, NY 14809 or to the Dormann Library, 101 W. Morris St., Bath, NY 14810.