Brian J. Russ 1948-2025

He was born May 14, 1948, in Warren, to Peter Russ and Sylvia Turner Russ; they preceded him in death, as did his daughter, Heather Gustafson.

Brian served as a chief warrant officer in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He was part of the elite “Blue Max” Cobra gunship pilots of the First Cavalry Division. Highly decorated, he received the distinguished Flying Cross, the Bronze Star, the Air Medal with 39 Oak Leaf Clusters, the Army Commendation Medal and the Vietnam Campaign Medal. Brian was named Veteran of the Year in 2021. He was most recently serving as a commander of the Vietnam Brotherhood Alpha Company and concurrently commander of the Disabled American Veterans Post 97 in Sarasota.

He was known for his kindness, generosity and helpfulness to all he encountered; he was always willing and ready to help anyone in need. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

He leaves behind his wife, Carole Kujala Russ; daughter, April Isler; brother, Stephen Russ; two grandchildren, Zachary Gustafson and Mila Isler; and three stepsons, Jeffrey, David and Daniel L’amoureaux.

Brian will be laid to rest 11 a.m. Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in Sarasota National Cemetery.

A celebration of life will be held at Disabled American Veterans, 7177 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, FL 34241, immediately following interment.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be accepted to Disabled American Veterans, dav.org.

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