Charles "Charlie" Russell

Charles E. Russell, 76, of Geneva, passed away on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, under the compassionate care of the palliative team at Strong Memorial Hospital with loving family by his side. Friends are invited to call Thursday, March 7, between 2pm and 6pm at Palmisano-Mull Funeral Home, 28 Genesee Street in Geneva. A memorial service will be held at the First United Methodist Church on Main Street in Geneva, Saturday, March 9, at 11 am. A graveside military service will be scheduled at the NY State Veterans Cemetery in Romulus.

Charlie was grateful for the experience of a lifetime aboard Honor Flight Mission 77. Memorial donations may be directed to Honor Flight Rochester, Inc. PO Box 23581, Rochester, NY 14692, or online at honorflightrochester.org.

Charlie was a proud Penn Yan native, born February 25, 1948, to William Reid and Iris Russell. He was a member of the Penn Yan class of 1967. He earned his Associate's Degree from Finger Lakes Community College as an adult learner. He honorably served his country in the US Navy and spoke fondly of his time aboard the USS Robert E. Lee (SSBN-601.) He retired from a career at NYSEG.

Whether on stage with the Finger Lakes Chorus (Barbershoppers), the Finger Lakes Community Band, or from within the choir's ranks at the First United Methodist Church in Geneva, Charlie could be found spreading joy through the performing arts. You may recall seeing him cruising through town on his Can-Am Spyder or frequenting one of our local restaurants for a bite, a drink, and a chat with whoever was willing to engage!

He was a longtime member of the American Legion and VFW. He served the Finger Lakes Chorus and Methodist Church in various capacities. He coached t-ball and little league softball teams and served as a swim official for the YMCA competitive swim program. He loved having a good time, he brought light wherever he went, and he will be missed by so many.

Charlie is survived by his wife, Janet Russell of Geneva; daughters, Jennifer (Thomas) Murdock of Elbridge, Rebecca (Michael) Cornish of Bath, Bethany Russell of Penn Yan, and Irene (Marc) Rodriguez of Geneva; grandchildren, Aiden, Derrick, Griffin, Devin, Ethan, Amelia, and Zola; siblings, Linda (David) Woodruff, Mike (Gail) Russell, and Holly (Pete) Martin.

He has happily reunited with his daughters, Heather Russell and Amy Russell, who predeceased him.