Gloucester - Louis E. "Skip" Russell Jr. of Gloucester, passed away May 27, 2026, at the age of 93. He was born December 1, 1932 in Gloucester, MA to Louis E. Russell Sr. And C. Doris (Porter) Russell. Through his journey of 93 years, he touched many lives with his Christian faith, wisdom, humor, and an unwavering spirit of perseverance. A 1951 graduate of Gloucester High School, he entered the Navy in November 1952 during the Korean Conflict. He was honored during his Naval career to march in the Eisenhower inaugural parade in 1952 and also took part in the commissioning ceremony of the first atomic submarine, the Nautilus, in Connecticut. A travel highlight was visiting the Nautilus in 2006 at the Museum at New London Submarine Base in Connecticut.

A carpenter by trade, Skip also worked in engineering and drafting for General Electric and Raytheon. From 1971 to 1983, he served the City of Gloucester as Chairman of the Board of Assessors. During that time, he was also a Mass. Real Estate Salesman, Mass. Appraiser CMA 45, Member of the International Assessors Association, and Past President of the Essex County Assessors Association.

A car enthusiast, which started after his 1947 win at the Fishbox Derby in his homemade car. He then became a member of the Dragonetters Hotrod Club and the North Shore Car Club, winning many trophies for his refurbished cars. The intersection of passions is apparent with the pride he took in restoring his 1966 Airstream camper. In 1970, he built a tent trailer from scratch and drove his family across country. He was also a skilled craftsman making many wooden gifts for family and friends. His carpentry skills can be seen by the total renovation of his home and apartments. The home he renovated was built in 1873 once housing many quarry workers. A strong advocate for affordable housing, he was able to fulfill that need by providing affordable housing at his Quarrymen's Quarters. This became a place where his family gathered for many years of Father's Day cookouts. His grandchildren fondly remember catching frogs in the book, finding treasures, and sledding down the driveway.

Skip also had a love of camping and started the family camping tradition at Sebago Lake State Park in Maine which he led for 48 consecutive years. He would make breakfast for all who attended complete with the menu board and daily selection list. One time serving toad in a hole to 22 family members. He would bring his children and grandchildren tubing, knee boarding, and water skiing in his boat the "SeaJay". The Sebago Lake tradition will be carried on by his children and grandchildren. He and his wife, Carol, also camped across the United States and Canada. He also loved traveling with his church family (Lanesville Congregation) to Israel and Civil War trips to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, New York, Kentucky, and Maryland. Skip's love for the ocean, especially sailing, brings many wonderful memories of his sailboat "Together" which was moored in Lobster Cove in Annisquam. To stay fit for all his hobbies, he ran early every morning.

He leaves behind his ever loving wife, Carol (Dow) Russell. His children who were the light of his life, Kim Binette (Steve) of Raymond, NH, Kris Munroe (Tyler) of North Andover, Eric Russell (Maria) of Gloucester. He was dedicated to being a provider and mentor to each of them. They will always remember his patience and dedication in teaching life lessons, hard work, and unwavering support for their ambitions and careers.

He also leaves step children, Craig Oliver (Beth) of Ipswich, Lisa Sweeney (David Sweeney) of West Newbury; grandchildren, Alex Binette, Kyle Curley, Kristin Curley, Tyler Munroe, Kailey LaFlamme, Jake Munroe, Ryan Russell, Sophie Russell, Elizabeth Russell; step grandchildren, Tim Cawley, Michael Cawley, Lindsey Psalidas, Jaime Martin, Dustin Sweeney, and Erin Sweeney; brother Peter Russell (Sharon) of Florida; nephews, Bryan Russell and Tim Russell; brother-in-law David Dow and his wife Alice. He was so grateful to be a grampy to 6 great-grandchildren and 9 step great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his loving daughter, Katherine (Russell) Orlando and son-in-law Chris Orlando.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday June 6, 2026, at 11 a.m. at the Lanesville Congregational Church, 1120 Washington St, Gloucester, MA 01930.

Psalm 116:15 "Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of faithful servants."

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to the Lanesville Congregational Church.

The family wishes to thank Beth Israel Lahey Health at Home (Hospice), the Veterans Administration, SeniorCare, and Guardian Angels for all their help and support and a special thank you to Fred.

Arrangements by Greely Funeral Home, 212 Washington Street, Gloucester, MA 01930.

For online condolences, please visit www.greelyfuneralhome.com.