Candice J. Russell was born Sept. 20, 1951 in Norwich, daughter of William and Harriett Brunig. She passed away at home in the presence of her family on the morning of April 27, 2020, at the age of 68 after a short but courageous battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia.
Candice graduated from Norwich High School in the class of 1969, and later graduated from Slippery Rock University in Pennsylvania, with a degree in physical education and health. She earned her master’s degree from San Jose State University in San Jose, Calif. She married Renwick Russell July 23, 1977 at Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Norwich. Candice began her teaching career at Walton Central School in 1973, where she taught health and physical education. After taking time to raise her children, she continued to teach health and wellness at the State University of New York at Delhi. At various times throughout her career, she coached tennis, basketball, softball, swimming, and field hockey. She officiated field hockey at both the high school and collegiate levels. She was well known in the Walton community as the swimming lesson coordinator. She was a member of the New York State Women’s Association, Delaware County Cooperative Extension, United Presbyterian Church, Red Cross, was former superintendent of the Delaware County Fair Home and Extension Building.
Candice enjoyed hiking, biking, kayaking, skiing, swimming, reading, and traveling. She loved the outdoors and remained active until her recent illness. Candice was always an advocate for women’s athletics and physical education throughout her lifetime. Her greatest joy was spending time with her grandchildren, Madilyn and Liam.
She is survived by her loving husband, Renwick Russell, two children, Lisa (Christopher) Knode, of Manheim, Pa., and Jeffrey (Cortnie) Russell, Walton and her beloved grandchildren, Madilyn and Liam Russell, of Walton. She is also survived by three sisters: Barbara (Rollie) Thomas, of Clayton, Linda (Charlie) Hanson, of Norwich, and Elizabeth (Andy) Bergfjord, Cooperstown. In addition, she is survived by her brothers and sisters-in-law, many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.
She was predeceased by her parents and her sister Kathleen Murphy.
A graveside committal service and burial with be held at Walton Cemetery. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Memorial donations may be made to the Walton United Presbyterian Church, 58 East Street, Walton, NY 13856.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Courtney Funeral Home, Walton. To leave a message for Candice’s family visit www.courtneyfh.com.
