Russell F. Anderson

Russell Frederick Anderson, 79, completed his life journey on October 20th 2017, ultimately felled by what he typically referred to as “the big C”. He came into this world on July 14th, 1938, born to Gladys (Anderson) and Russell Anderson Sr. in New Britain, CT where he grew up and lived for the first half of his life.

He had a special affection for the Duplin family, with who he lived for several years when he was a young boy.

He graduated from New Britain High School and E.C. Goodwin Technical High School with an electrician’s diploma. He worked as a dance instructor at Arthur Murray studios after High School and met and married fellow instructor Nancy L. Bradley of Plainville.  Early on they lived and taught dance in Bermuda but eventually returned to the New Britain area and Russ began work with the City of New Britain. He served most of his career as the traffic signal mechanic for the town, retiring in 1984. He then enjoyed more than 10 years working as a courier/driver for the Tilcon company.

Russ and Nancy eventually relocated to Southington, where they bought their first home and he lived until the time of his death. Nancy predeceased him, passing in 2008. He missed her right until the end. The family takes comfort in the thought of them dancing once again.

He leaves behind daughter Robin Ringquist and her husband Don of Berlin and son Russell Anderson of Avon. He is also survived by his four adoring granddaughters; Erin Ozelski of Beacon Falls, Casey Ringquist of Berlin, Molly Anderson of Plymouth and Emily Anderson of New Britain. He recently became a great grandfather to Noelle Cordeau of Plymouth and Lilly Ozelski of Beacon Falls. He had great affection for all “his girls”.

After his second retirement, he enjoyed daily walks at Walnut Hill Park, playing chess, rooting on his beloved Yankees, his even more beloved UConn Women’s basketball team and having weekly dinners with his family. The dinners were always followed by a dominoes game in which he displayed ingenious and never-ending ways to cheat while feigning innocence. He had a terrific, dry sense of humor and gifted the family with an endless amount of laughter over the years.

The family is planning a life celebration memorial that is tentatively scheduled for 12:00 Noon on November 5th.  The event is open to those who knew him.  Anybody interested in attending is encouraged to send an email to russlifecelebration2017@gmail.com.  Further details will be provided when available. Please RSVP no later than 10/28/17. There will be no formal calling hours or funeral.

The family would like to thank the staff at Apple Rehab in Plainville for the kindness and care they provided during his stay.