Russell G. Kimura

     Russell G. Kimura, 73, of Cogan Station, died peacefully at home on Saturday, March 2, 2019, after courageously fighting lung disease the last years of his life.

     He is survived by his wife, F. Denise Hamby, daughter, Keri M. Kimura and her fiance Ryan Blotnick, brother, Craig Kimura and his wife Sally, sister-in-law, Julie Ryan and her husband Robert, nieces, Caitlin Kimura, Cecily Kimura, Amanda Gertjejansen, Makalya Ryan, and nephew Jesse Gertjejansen. Russ was predeceased by his parents and son Christopher A. Bernstine.

     Russ was born in Hilo, Hawaii, in 1945 to Edna and Kazuo Kimura. He graduated from Swarthmore College with a degree in economics and went on to the University of Chicago to study law. He received a Master's in Education from Antioch College and later completed an accounting degree from Lycoming College to become a C.P.A. He was an inquisitive soul who embarked on many career paths including teaching, owning a solar business, working for the city of Williamsport, public accounting, and banking. He retired as Vice President and Controller of Woodlands Bank.

     Responding to an ad for a teacher, Russ moved to Williamsport in the 1970s to help start West Branch School. There he met his wife and partner of 42 years Denise Hamby. Together they built a home on Sunshine Farm, land they shared with Kay and Perry Adelson and their children Andria Larson, Butchie Adelson, and Jessica Engel. The farm was one of his greatest sources of joy. Year-round he could be found outside working, gardening, cutting wood, hiking, or cross country skiing. Russ was a man who could fix anything, was never afraid to try something new, and who loved to create. He cared deeply for his community and devoted time to a number of non-profit organizations. He was a humble person who treated every individual with respect and whose advice was always measured, honest, and kind.

     Russ will be missed by family, friends, and all who knew him. A memorial celebration will be held from 1-4 p.m. Sunday, April 28 at the Peter Herdic House 407 W 4th St, Williamsport, PA 17701.

     Donations may be made to any non-profit including STEP, Northcentral Pennsylvania Conservancy, Gift of Life Family House or West Branch School.

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