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Billy Buchanan posted a symbolic gesture
Tuesday, June 27, 2023
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I worked with Russell for several years at the Sears Roebuck at 2800 Wilson Blvd, Arlington VA. We were friends, I always made a point to invite him to our parties, and as others mentioned, his great memory and wealth of stories made every gathering that much more fun. I still remember how much he loved eating. Visiting his house on Washington Blvd (only two blocks from Sears) one Christmas, really just to exchange gifts, one drink and good-bye, but insisted we stay and threw on a feast: canned sardines, olives, cheese, and crackers, all of which were being sampled same time as us by a dozen or so of his cats. It was a little bizarre, like something from a movie, but also very sweet. I'll call it Russell's way!
I love cats, especially Siamese, and every time am around one think of Russell huge collection. He had the ultimate playboy cat, a black street hustler named Uncle Bob, that turned every female Russell had into baby machines. I calculated he'd have over three hundred and fifty if not for 'attrition' (cars whizzing by on the Blvd; people catnapping them) but the most he had there was only three dozen or so. Like I said, a movie.
When I changed departments, stores, lost track of my friend. But my memory of him will never fade. Think of him every time I see a furry friend.
Billy
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Lisa Hoffmaster in NY lit a candle
Thursday, March 11, 2021
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I did not know Uncle Russell well, but I was always blessed after having a conversation with him. He was a pleasure to talk to and I was always impressed by his memory. He loved his family, "as far as that goes." :-) My condolences go out to Robert C. and to my family members I have never met. God be with you.
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John Hoffmaster posted a symbolic gesture
Thursday, March 11, 2021
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To our beloved Uncle. May he rest in peace.
John Hoffmaster and daughter Lisa Hoffmaster
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Robin Edidin posted a condolence
Thursday, March 11, 2021
Russell loved life and loved learning about the world. After the end of WW2, Russell had a chance to travel around Europe, and 65 years later, he was able to recount the experience as though it had happened last week. In the mid 60s, Russell bought a motor scooter and took a months-long trip through the Balkans. I thought it was the coolest thing when he brought his slides and a projector over to give us a tour of his trip. I also think of all of the nature, science, and geography shows Russell watched with Robert, and how much he enjoyed them.
And then there were Russell's cats! Who in our family hasn't had one or two of the famous Russell Hoffmaster cats? Russell loved cats so much, and over the course of his life, had hundreds of them, starting with his first black cat from his childhood. The first cat of Russell's I ever met was Carmen, in 1965, who at the time was 21 years old. Carmen lived with Russell and two feline companions in a tiny apartment on Dupont Circle, in D.C.. Years later, when Russell moved to Arlington, he had room to expand his feline family. The rest is history!
With his astounding memory, Russell was the unofficial family historian. The last few times I saw him, we spent time pouring over his albums, that contain pictures of even "pre-Russell" times. Russell was able to fill in so much about our family history for me, and I'll always cherish that time with him.
Rest in Peace, Russell. You are an amazing being who has touched each of us with your grace, your sense of humor, your love of family (both human and feline!), and your curiosity about our world. I'll miss you.
Love,
Robin Hoffmaster Edidin
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Lisa Hoffmaster lit a candle
Thursday, March 11, 2021
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So many wonderful memories of you, Dear Russell. From early childhood memories, it was always a treat when you would hang out at the house- fun to be around, interesting stories, with a pure and kind heart. I feel fortunate to have had you in my life, and blessed as my Godfather; your love, devotion and faith has been (and continues to be) truly inspirational.
Rest in peace, Beloved Russell.
With much love,
Lisa
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David Needham lit a candle
Thursday, March 11, 2021
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Russell was such a great guy with a fantastic memory. He was such a delight to have at all the family functions. Very devoted to family and his religious beliefs as a Catholic. He will be missed but having memories of him will carry on. He was the oldest person I have known,. The eldest prior to Russell were my Grandma and the Berkeley side Grandma ate the ages of 95. I am very thankful that I had been invited to Russell's last birthday party (on Zoom) at the grand age of 97!! I feel blessed to have known him!
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A tree was planted in memory of Russell Hoffmaster
Thursday, March 11, 2021
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In honor of Russell, who exemplified the Greatest Generation. It changed our lives to have known you. Love from Ashley, Justin, Poppy, Kathy, and Jim. Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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Adams-Green Funeral Home & Crematory
721 Elden Street | Herndon, VA 20170
P: (703) 437-1764 or (703) 471-4090 | E: bill@adamsgreen.com
