Obituary of Mark A. Russell

Mark A. Russell passed away on November 19th, 2023 with his wife and most cherished loved ones by his side. Mark was predeceased by his parents John & Patricia Russell, and his best friend (who he considered to be his brother) Jay Cahill. Mark is survived by his wife Rosemary, step children Brittany (Mick) and Daniel (Mollie), and brand new grandson, Owen. Mark wanted to be called Papa Bean and was excited to meet his grandson and enjoy his little family. Marks wife, step-children and their partners loved him deeply. Mark is also survived by his sister Laurie (John) and three nieces, extended family including a special Uncle Fred and Aunt Carol and many cousins. Mark shared a special bond with his cousin Kevin, who was also by his side when he left us. Mark was an avid football and baseball fan, and was a loyal fan of the Detroit Lions and New York Yankees. Mark made a hobby of collecting sports memorabilia and was never without one of his most cherished sports items, his hats. Mark loved music, travel and sitting on the patio with who he arguably loved the most, his rescue dog Bailey. Mark graduated from North High in 1974 and went to graduate from SUNY Broome and SUNY Oswego. Marks claim to fame was attending school at the same college as Al Roker. Mark was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in September of 2021 and fought valiantly to the very end. Mark was beloved by his many friends and family members, and will be remembered for his terrible "dad jokes", his huge heart and his sense of humor. Those whom he was closest with will forever be imbued with his love, and will carry him with them. Mark was proud of his Irish heritage, and loved bagpipes. In the years leading up to his passing, he formed a special bond with local bagpiper Marc Loveland, who went out of his way to play bagpipes for Mark in his home on Parade Day, and most recently Mark & Rosemary's wedding. Marks family would like to thank the Southern Tier Independence Center, The ALS Association, Team Gleason and all of Marks care team, especially Breanna & Audrey. Funeral Services will be held at the J.A. McCormack Sons Funeral Home, 141 Main Street, Binghamton, Thursday, November 30 2023 at 11 a.m. Rev. Corey S. VanKuren will officiate. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Johnson City. The family will receive friends at the McCormack Funeral Home, Thursday from 9:30 a.m. until 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to STIC, Team Gleason, The Humane Society or Hospice.