Russell Mark Waldron

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Russell “Russ” Mark Waldron, Sr., who passed away peacefully on May 16, 2025, surrounded by his children.

Russ is survived by his beloved children: Alisa (Dan) DiBlasi of Salem, NY; Russell Waldron, Jr. (Kimberley) of Columbia, MD; and Jennifer (Taylor) Whitley of Playa del Rey, CA. He is also survived by his younger brother, David Waldron of Fulton, NY.

He was a proud grandfather to Danny DiBlasi, Neva DiBlasi, Austyn Waldron, Anne Waldron, and Olivia Whitley.

Russ was predeceased by his cherished wife of 60 years, Stephanie “Stevie” Waldron, and by his parents, Ruth and Mark Waldron of Fulton, New York.

Born on July 18, 1941, in Fulton, New York, Russ lived a life defined by deep family connections and an unwavering commitment to education. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from SUNY Oswego in 1962, followed by a Master of Arts in Educational Administration from Syracuse University. These achievements laid the foundation for a remarkable and influential career in education, during which he touched the lives of countless students and colleagues across multiple communities.

Russ began his career as a fifth-grade teacher in the Chittenango School District, where his enthusiasm and love for learning inspired his students. He went on to serve as a math coordinator at Fremont Hills Elementary in the East Syracuse-Minoa School District. His leadership abilities led him to principal roles at T.J. Connor Elementary in Scottsville, NY, and later at Minoa Elementary in East Syracuse, NY. He concluded his distinguished career as Assistant Superintendent of the East Syracuse-Minoa School District, a position that exemplified both his administrative expertise and his belief in the transformative power of education. After retiring, Russ enjoyed a second career in real estate.

Beyond his professional life, Russ was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. In August 1962, he married his college sweetheart, Stevie. Their 60-year union was filled with love, partnership, and shared passions. Among their favorite pastimes was antiquing, which led to a treasured collection of unique items and the restoration of two historic homes. These homes - renovated with care, creativity and pride -became warm, inviting spaces where they raised their three children and made lifelong memories. Russ was a man of many talents who found joy in gardening, baking, and reupholstering furniture. He also occasionally tried his luck at the slot machines. Passionate about genealogy, he took great pride in researching his family’s history and sharing it during annual reunions. Russ adored his two cats, Al and Lucy, and especially cherished time at the family’s lakeside camp, where he found peace on the water aboard their beloved party boat. He loved spending time with his grandchildren.

Russ will be remembered as a devoted caretaker to his beloved wife, Stevie, and for his sharp wit and warm sense of humor that brought laughter and light to everyone around him. His gentle nature reflected a deeply compassionate soul who valued connection, family, and kindness above all else. Russ will be profoundly missed, but he lives on in our hearts through the many cherished memories we hold dear.

Calling hours will be held from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., followed by a short memorial service at 3:00 on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at Foster Funeral Home, 910 Fay Street, Fulton, NY 13069.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who cared for Russ - he loved you all dearly.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Russ’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org.

To share a memory or express your condolences, please sign the guestbook.