Year Inducted – 1995

After an impressive start in the youth leagues where he excelled as a hard hitting first baseman, Russ became Kenmore High’s leading hitter for four years. He earned four letters, was All-City three times, MVP and was team captain as a senior at Kenmore. He was a four year starter hitting well over .300. During the summer months he played AA baseball with Azar-Denholm, Nino’s, Weather Seal and the Red Peppers. He retired from the AA League in 1982 after stints with Magic City Lanes, Burger King, Pfeifle Funeral Home, Ellet Graphic Arts, Dr. Peppers, Isler Refuse, and Suarez Construction. Russ’ illustrious career includes 12 All-Star Team honors, 12 championship teams, leading hitter in the league in various categories on eight separate occasions. He came out of retirement to aid the Akron Blues of the Senior League in their winning ways. Russ is truly one of the area’s great baseball players.