Dug up a few of my favorite moments with @thewuss from our St. A days, then later out here in Cali. It’s random, but one of my first standout memories of Russell was sitting in our freshman dorm room at Flagler, 1999, watching VHS footage of him surfing in Costa Rica, edited to DJ Shadow’s “Organ Donor.” It was mind blowing to me at the time. Even back then it was clear Russ had amazing style, in and out of the water. Russell was so talented, original, and ahead of the curve — he was filming and editing surf videos of his lanky ass surfing better than anyone else I knew at 18 years old. Not to mention he was so generous with all of his talents: in our youth he never missed an opportunity to take me under his wing and push me out in the water, and later in life he was a constant contributor to my creative projects. Even though he was a month younger than me, I saw him as an older brother figure. It sounds so cliche, but we really did lose such a good one too soon. It just doesn’t seem fair that the world was robbed of such a positive, giving, creative soul like Russ so suddenly. He made everyone want to do better. I’ve never heard of anyone having beef with Russell. The dude was cool as a cucumber and loved by all. Russell, I wish I had told you these things while you were alive. Instead I’m writing in my stupid public internet diary, but it feels good to get it out there anyway. I love you like a brother and I will miss you dearly old friend. We had our own ups and downs over the years (as friends do), but you were always there for me whenever I needed you, and I would have been there for you any time in a fucking heartbeat. I’m truly grateful for our time together. Thank you for ALWAYS supporting my work and personal endeavors. You were a constant inspiration to me from Day 1. I hope to be with you again someday on the other side riding twin fins and trading lefthand barrels! I’ll never forget watching those videos in the dorms though. You made Costa Rica sound like heaven on earth. With all the emotions going through my head now, it brings me some peace knowing that’s where you passed; a place I knew was dear to your heart, doing what you love.