Obituary of Arthur "Artie" J Russell

North Lawrence- Mr. Arthur “Artie” J. Russell Jr., 61, recently of Malone, passed away unexpectedly at the University of Vermont Health Network- Alice Hyde Medical Center in Malone on Saturday September 17, 2016, with his family by his side. Arrangements are entrusted to Hammill Funeral Home in Winthrop. Artie was born in Massena on August 14, 1955 to the late Arthur J. Russell Sr. and Betty J. Whalen. At a young age he moved in with his sister, Patty and her husband Duane Black; they took him in as one of their own and raised him before having their own children Sara, Sam, and Shelby. While growing up together and over the years the 3 girls created a unique bond and kept a close relationship with their uncle. Recently he was living in Malone where he had made many new friends and was becoming more active. Those who knew and loved Artie will remember his ability to tell a story and how he could make anyone laugh. He was a true ladies man and wasn’t shy about it; the prettier, the better. He was a huge NY Yankee’s fan, being especially fond of Derek Jeter. He loved to watch wrestling, particularly “Andre the Giant”. Artie also enjoyed playing the guitar and had an infectious smile. He is survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Patricia and Duane Black of North Lawrence, his brother and sister-in-law, Jim and Becky Russell of Syracuse, his nieces and nephews: Sara (Marc) Muir of Cornwall, Ont. CAN., Sam Black and Nate Carr of Brasher Falls, Shelby Black and Chad Page of North Lawrence, Bobbie Jean (Frank) Phillips of Norwood, Jack Bigness of Tupper Lake, Melissa, Jonathan, Amanda, James Russell, Douglas (Stephanie) Russell, Timothy (Tracy) Russell, and several great nieces and great nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his sister Nancy McCarthy. Calling hours will be Wednesday from 11am to 1pm at the Hammill Funeral Home with a closing prayer service at 1:00pm. Burial will follow at St. Patrick Cemetery in Brasher Falls. For those wishing to express an act of kindness memorial contributions may be made in Arties honor to the Franklin County Down Syndrome Society. Memories and condolences may be shared with his family at www.hammillfh.com.