Russell R. Halpine

Russell Halpine, aged 86, passed away January 17, 2025, supported in his transition by his family, close friends, his caregivers and hospice.

Russell’s life was his work. He followed in the footsteps of his father working for the telephone company. He started out helping with telephone pole installation and maintenance. He participated in numerous company trainings and education opportunities. Over time, Russell became certified as a telephone engineer. He continued along his career path eventually passing into management positions. He was always interested in the research and innovations being developed in the telephone industry as it grew and expanded. He worked through many telephone company transitions and saw the industry transition from primitive switchboard systems toward the much more complex systems of today. He retired from the telephone company after 40 years of service.

Russell and his wife Pat shared a very close bond throughout their 62 years of marriage. He provided constant stable support, and she provided a rich home life by always fostering new, interesting and creative experiences. They raised their four children in a household of creativity and provided many opportunities for experiencing diverse cultures, including bringing their children on fun family trips, which is a tradition they continued with their grandchildren. They were also blessed with a great- grandchild.

Russell and Pat enjoyed conversing over a wide variety of subjects and sharing their ideas and reflecting together. Russell was a faithful spiritual companion. Together, they enjoyed studying the scriptures, digging into the history and context, and discussing various points of view regarding spirituality in general. Together, they studied the bible both formally and informally. They formed many close friendships during their instigation and participation in diverse prayer groups. Russell and Pat were deeply involved in their church communities and provided many years of service through education, outreach and support of those in spiritual need. As a Deacon, Russell spent many compassionate hours visiting those who were sick and those who were dying. As a layperson, while working downtown, it was not unusual for Russell to minister to homeless men experiencing hunger by inviting them to eat lunch with him or by buying them food.

A Celebration of Life will be planned at a future time when family members are able to attend. If you would like to honor Russell’s memory and his legacy of ministering to those who are so frequently marginalized, please consider making a donation to ViventHealth at viventhealth.org.