Russ Flanagan Tribute

Boy, how many memories do I have of Russ? We worked together for a year or so at Recorder Newspapers in Chester, where I am still an editor. We goofed around so much, that our desks had to be separated! Just like in grammar school! We'd make prank phone calls during lunch, and once, we both attended a Carrie Fisher lecture at a local hotel. Both of us got our picture with Princess Leia, and he was thrilled! We always talked politics, movies, and our respective collectibles. He had all the old Star Wars figures- the originals- and I do too, so we had a lot in common right away. I've still got a picture in my office of my wife, myself, my then 2-year old daughter and Russ all standing in my office. We had lost touch over the past few years, but he would call now and again, and it was always as if not a day had passed.

God Bless Russ Flanagan. Not only was Russ a stand-up guy and a great reporter, but I also think he would have made an excellent teacher. I remember him helping me out one early morning when I had to cover a court beat that I knew nothing about. He made the process I would have to go through simplistic and while he was doing his own work he came in to check on me and make sure I was comfortable covering what I needed to.

His short life should not be forgotten, but celebrated. We are on this earth for a short period of time and most of us squander it worrying about trivial things. Russ took pride in his work, interests and friends and I hope he is in a place where his smile will be appreciated as much as it was here.

Russ, I will miss you. You taught me so much and opened me up to new things in the eight months we were together. You are an amazing guy, and I feel so lucky to have been abe to spend time with you. I will hold onto my memories. I am so shocked and cannot even begin to understand why you are gone so soon. Everytime I look at the garden, I will think of you, and how we, really you, made the garden. I will plant something in your memory. You will always be in my heart. My prayers and thoughts go out to you and your family. I will always love you. Jen

I went to high school with Russ and recently reconnected with him on myspace. I always enjoyed his writings. It was witty, sincere and downright sarcastic (the best part!). He was a great guy and will be missed dearly.

I am very saddend to hear about the passing of this great human being. He was one of nicest and funniest people I have known.

I cant believe someone with so much spirit and life is just...gone...? He always made you smile, even if you didnt feel ike it. I knew Russ through mutual friends and went to the same college. It is so sad to lose someone like him.