Russ is a former sailor, having served in the U.S. Navy from 1963 thru 1971.  He was stationed in Adak, Alaska; Virginia Beach,Virginia; Barbers Pt. Hawaii; and spent 8 months aboard the USS John F. Kennedy Aircraft Carrier in the Mediterranean and North Atlantic.  He also made a world cruise on the USS Independence.

He spent 3 semesters at the University of Hawaii, studying Architectural and Mechanical Drafting and Design Technology.

Russ has an Associates Degree in Building Maintenance, and Associates Degree in HVAC/R.  He is the Service Manager for a Commercial HVAC/R Company that services retail properties, restaurants, and other commercial properties.

He was born and raised in St. Louis County, MO.  He raised three children and is the proud Grandpa of three beautiful little girls and one boy.