Alvin F. "Bud" Russell, 83, of Stratford, beloved husband of Paula Lakatos Russell, died March 1 in Bridgeport Hospital. He was born in Bridgeport on February 8, 1935, son of the late Esther (Hylen) and Oliver Russell and has been a lifelong area resident.

In addition to his beloved wife of 59 years, his devoted children and their partners, Susan and Steven Goodridge of Newtown, Pamela Andruski and Dan McInerney of Stratford, and Ted and Amy Russell of Stratford; his cherished grandchildren, Brendon and Ryan Goodridge, Ashley Andruski and her fiancé Josh Blodgett, and Evan and Melanie Russell; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins survive him.

Mr Russell graduated from Stratford High School, Class of 1954, lettering in football, baseball, basketball, and track, and was the vice president of his senior class. He went on to earn a BS in health and physical education from New Haven State Teachers College, where he played varsity baseball and basketball. He continued his education at the University of Bridgeport, earning a MS in physical education, and a Sixth Year Professional Degree in administration and supervision.

He taught for 36 years at Danbury High School, Johnson Junior High, and Stratford High School. Mr Russell also coached baseball for 21 years and soccer for 11 years at Stratford High School. He was inducted into the Stratford High School Hall of Fame in 1999 and received the Golden Crown Athletic Award from the Stratford Old Timers Athletic Association in 2012.

Mr Russell was also an active member of Stratford United Methodist Church, serving as an usher and on several boards. He enjoyed playing golf, traveling, and cheering on the Boston Red Sox and UConn Women's Basketball.

His loved ones say he was a man of great character and integrity, and an excellent role model for the youth whose lives he touched, through both teaching and coaching.

A memorial service celebrating his life will take place on Saturday, March 24, at 11 am, at the Stratford United Methodist Church, 2600 Main Street, Stratford. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make donations in Mr Russell's memory to Stratford United Methodist Church - ASP Project, 2600 Main Street, Stratford CT 06615; or to Stratford High School Scholarship for Sportsmanship in Baseball or Soccer, 45 North Parade Street, Stratford CT 06615.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Adzima Funeral Home-Stratford.

To make an online condolence, visit adzimafuneralhome.com.