Charles "Bruce" Russell was born on May 1, 1926, to Edith M. Bannister and Charles Aloysius Russell in Baltimore, MD. His older sister, Ida "Betty" and he grew up in Glen Burnie, MD where he graduated from Glen Burnie High School. Having a very strong work ethic, he then put himself through night school while working full time and raising his family with his wife, Gerri N. Russell. He successfully completed his CPA and went on to work in public accounting, and then worked for Al Packer Ford Enterprises for most of his career, first as a controller and later as the CFO until his retirement.

A devoted husband, he is now survived by his beloved wife, Gloria Jean who he shared many wonderful years with. His family has always been important to him, especially his children: Colleen, Kathy, Joyce, Chuck, and Suzanne and stepchild, Michele as well as his grandchildren: Erin, Kelly, Patrick, Sean, Chris, Julia, Ryan, Nick, Alec, and Kyle and his great grandchildren: Emily, Maddie, Elena, and Cole.

Bruce had an engaging personality and many friends that he loved spending time with. He had numerous hobbies and was always active especially outdoors and near the water. Early in his life he was an avid tennis player, golfer, and loved boating, fishing, and crabbing at the beach. Later in his life, he still could be found walking on the boardwalk near the water, cheering on his favorite Ravens football team, playing cards and games, gardening, and reading. He was very talented artistically, especially in architecture and designing houses and in painting and made many beautiful oil, watercolor, and acrylic paintings as well as house designs. He was impressive with his technological skills and spent time using his computer to research investments, real estate, car sales and other information that could help his family members. "Smiley", as he was called by some, also loved a good laugh and sent jokes and stories to friends and family on a daily basis.

A devout catholic, a Mass will be celebrated for him at St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church in Havre de Grace, MD on Tuesday July 25th at 12 noon. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Online condolences may be made at www.zellmanfuneralhome.com.