Ryan passed away suddenly on August 1 at the age of 44. He was surrounded by family and friends in his hospital room saying their goodbyes and singing songs. He was the oldest son of Mike and Denise Russell and passed away on his father’s birthday. He was born in Modesto and grew up in Valley Home where he attended Valley Home School and graduated from Oakdale High School. Ryan was one of the co-founders of the local store, Oakies. He worked at PG&E for 10 years and changed careers to heating and air conditioning so he could have more time to devote to his music. He was a singer/song-writer and performed throughout Northern California. He has been nominated the last two years, and again this year, for the MAMA awards (Modesto Area Music Awards). Ryan also loved duck hunting and the outdoors. He waited 43 years to get married and said he finally found his soulmate, Tara. He was the kindest and most soulful person you could ever meet. Ryan leaves behind his wife of 10 months, Tara Madigan Russell and step-son, Ryan, of Oakdale; parents, Mike and Denise Russell of Oakdale; brothers, Danny Russell of Oakdale, Randy (Amanda) Russell of Knights Ferry; niece, Kimberly Russell of Oakdale and a large music family and great friends. He will be truly missed, but lives on through his music. A celebration of life will be held for family and friends on September 17 at the Knights Ferry Community Center. Celebration begins at 5 p.m. and continues throughout the evening. The Russell Family would like to thank each and every one for their food offerings, flowers, plants, and beautiful cards.

The Oakdale (Calif.) Leader
Aug. 31, 2016