Russell Lee Norman

Russell Lee Norman, of Escondido, California, passed away suddenly and peacefully at home on the morning of February 2, 2022, at the age of 74.   

He is survived by his siblings - sister, Michelle Norman of NYC, and brother, Barry Norman of Escondido.  And, preceded in death by his parents - Harold and Florence "Margo" Norman - and by Gwen Kline, his beloved life-partner of many years.

Russell was born on March 14, 1947 in Brooklyn, NY.  Intellectually gifted, he was placed in "SP" upon entering Boody Junior High School, a program that combined the 7th and 8th grades into one in an accelerated year of learning. 

At Lafayette High School, he shone on both the stage and the field.  A natural-born athlete, excelling in baseball, bowling and golf, he played Varsity Sports.  And with his great love of performing - acting, singing and musicianship - Lafayette offered many-an-opportunity for him to shine.  He appeared in all three 'SING' Shows and was involved in writing many of the skits and song lyrics as well.

In 1964, he went on to attend College at CUNY in NYC, graduating with a BA degree in Education.  So bright, clever, quick-thinking, articulate, his many and varied talents took him to a Media Consulting firm in NYC - working alongside the creator/owner, his Cousin Bill (who Russell looked-up to as a big brother) - where these numerous (and more!) skills were employed as a researcher, analyst, writer, editor, designer (presentations/visuals), and also as a much-appreciated sounding-board, and more!  Initially based in NYC, they relocated to New Paltz, NY in the 80's.  The company remains a highly-regarded and award-winning entity.  Bill has been touted by his colleagues worldwide for being an innovative transformer in the industry.  This made Russ beam with joy for his dear Cousin Bill and gave him a great sense of pride to have been a part of such a well-respected company.  

It was in New Paltz where Russell had the good fortune of meeting someone of the Baha'i Faith. This Faith's belief system truly 'spoke' to Russell, providing him with a community of people who shared his long-held belief that 'We Are All One', along with his longing for a world of compassion, unity, and being of support to one another . . .  to name just a few.  It resonated deeply with him.  The Faith gave him much serenity, and many friends-just-like-family as well.  He went on to become an active Spiritual Assembly Member in Escondido; and, for many years, Russell was their Librarian, and produced the Digital Monthly Newsletter and Calendar, as well.

Russ was quick-witted and funny, and a terrific mimic - he especially enjoyed imitating Jackie Mason, Mel Brooks as the 2000-Year-Old-Man, and Jim from the TV Show 'Taxi' - and was a huge fan of George Carlin.

Russell was a really big fan of the folk singers of-the-day ~ Pete Seeger, Peter, Paul and Mary, Joan Baez, Bob Dylan.  He LOVED the Beatles, and greatly enjoyed Simon & Garfunkel as well.  Russell's own music was greatly influenced by these artists.  A self-taught guitarist and songwriter, he composed music, wrote the lyrics, and sang - playing locally from-time-to-time.  He also produced a video, showcasing his songs.

Russ was outgoing, warm and friendly and enjoyed wonderful friendships throughout his life - the most treasured being his best buddy since childhood, Ed, who felt the same way about Russ.  They were one another's rock.  And, for the last 12 years, his dear and wonderful and supportive friend, Helgard - a treasured friendship that brought him much joy and peace.

An extremely loving and devoted son, he moved to Escondido in November 1997 to care for his parents.  He was also a wonderful big brother, and was loved deeply by his siblings.  He will be remembered by all as a supportive, caring, compassionate human being - and for all those wonderful afore-mentioned attributes, as well.  Russell's passing has left a very deep hole in the hearts of his many friends and family, who loved him so very dearly. This beautiful soul will live on forever in their cherished memories of him.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that you please make donations in Russell's honor to the following:

Spiritual Assembly of the Bahais of Escondido

P.O. Box 300692, Escondido CA 92030

Check or money order can be made payable to: Spiritual Assembly of the Bahais of Escondido

Note:  Designated for the Russell Norman Funeral Fund

National Kidney Foundation - www.kidney.org - Memorial Section In Donations: In Loving Memory of Russell Norman

Check or money order - and within accompanying letter: In Loving Memory of Russell Norman

Payable to: National Kidney Foundation

30 East 33rd Street, New York, NY 10016

(212)-889-2210

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Russell Lee Norman, please visit our floral store.