William F. “Rusty” Russell

William Faulkner “Rusty” Russell died July 19, 2023, at his home in Bradenton at the age of 98. Rusty was born in Louisville, KY on October 6, 1924, to Judge and Mrs. S.M. (Jean) Russell. He attended Louisville Rugby School, graduating Valedictorian of his class. He studied engineering at Vanderbilt University and joined Beta Theta Pi before he joined the U.S, Navy Seabees and the 107th Battalion.

Rusty was very proud of the work that the Seabees performed in the Pacific Theatre. He was stationed on Tinian Island, surveying the airstrips, and building the hard stands for loading the Enola Gay of their atomic cargo. He felt that the three (3) years he spent in the Pacific had an impact on the result of WWII. The 107th Battalion were the last to see the crew of the Indianapolis as they stopped at Tinian for some R&R before resuming their top-secret voyage. Rusty has memorabilia displayed at the World War II Museum in New Orleans, LA

After returning to civilian life, Rusty finished his education at the University of KY, becoming a lifelong Big Blue fan and meeting his wife, Casey Goman. Graduating with a degree in Radio Advertising, he and Casey married, moved to Bridgeman, MI, Russellville, KY then returning to Louisville, working at WKYW. Ten years and three (3) children later, they moved to Henderson, KY to manage WSON. As his career continued, they lived in Dayton Ohio, Indianapolis, and a stint selling the new concept, Cable TV. In 1970 he joined the ownership team of WEIC AM/FM in Charleston. IL. When the radio station was sold in 1979, they relocated to Bradenton, FL, where Rusty joined the Bradenton Herald in Advertising and Commercial printing. After retiring, he continued to give educational tours at the Herald for more than 20 years.

Rusty believed in community involvement with membership and leadership in his Church, Jaycees, Lions, Rotary, Elks, American Legion, Orchid Societies, Master Gardeners, Chambers of Commerce, State Broadcasting Associations and music groups. He was a Kentucky Colonel and served as an election deputy for local elections. Locally he was a founding member of the Crosley Estate Foundation, an elder at First Presbyterian Church, and served many years on the Sarasota Orchestra, Manatee Association Board. Rusty Served as President of the Florida Broadcast pioneers for 18 years and was a proud member of the I.O.O.B. As a member of The Hernando DeSoto Historical Society for over 30 years, he served on the boards of both the Society and the Foundation, in addition to being elected to the Krewe as Padre.

Rusty and Casey, married 69 years, loved to travel. They visited most of the countries in Europe on Riverboats as well as Thailand, Egypt. Russia, Brazil, and Cuba. They were inveterate genealogists and were active in the Manasota Genealogical Society and enjoyed researching both in Salt Lake City and The National Archives in Washington, DC.

Rusty was also an avid weaver, serving on the Board of the Manasota Weaver’s Guild, and giving demonstrations to many civic and educational groups. Woodworking was another hobby for Rusty, as was refinishing antiques.

In his final years, living at Westminster Point Pleasant, he re-discovered his love of swimming, swimming daily. He also met Penny Williams, who brought joy and companionship to his life.

Memorial Service will be held at First Presbyterian Church, August 3, 2023. 2:00 P.M. Family will receive friends prior to the service in their welcome center. Military Honors and Interment will be held at the Sarasota National Cemetery, August 4, 2023, 10:00 A.M.

Rusty is survived by son, William “Tuck” Russell (Elaine) of Orange City, FL, Catherine “Cathy“ DeMartino (Joe) of Pensacola, FL, granddaughters, Rachel Jones (Pete) of Chicago, IL and Sarah Polich of Indianapolis, IN, great grandchildren, Louise Catherine and Harry Michael of Chicago as well as number of nieces and nephews. Catherine (Casey) Russell and son, Robert “Rob” predeceased him, both suffering from Alzheimer's.

In lieu of Flowers, we ask that you contribute to Tidewell Hospice, Alzheimer’s Association, or The First Presbyterian Church of Bradenton.