Russell Holland, 64 of Preston passed away on October 31st 2024.
He is survived by his wife Melissia Lamb Holland; his daughter Cynthia Holland and son Robert Holland of Preston, his son Justin Holland of Ledyard and daughter Stacey Champagne and granddaughter Falynn Champagne of Plantsville.
Russ or as some of you knew him “Rusty” was born May 24th, 1960 to Ernita (King Morse) and John Holland of Preston. He lived his entire life in the same house. He was predeceased by his father John, his mother Ernita, his sisters Gail Holland and Evelyn (Holland) Linderman. He is survived by his brothers Neil Holland, James Holland and his sister Kathy Baker all of Preston. He has numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and extended family.
Russ attended Preston public schools and then Norwich Technical High School.
Russ joined the fire department in 1978. He held many positions throughout his time (Chief Engineer, Lieutenant, Captain, Deputy Chief) including the longest Chief of the Poquetanuck Fire Department. Russ and Melissia met at the fire department and were later married.
Russ worked for New London News and then Fall River News when the company was sold. He retired from Fall River News in 2019.
Russ enjoyed spending time with family and friends, responding to calls, serving the community and helping at fundraisers for the fire department. He liked attending cars shows, driving his 1930 Model A and working on his 57 Ford Fairlane. He liked listening to classic rock and would often change the station no matter whose vehicle he was in. Russ coached youth sports and was often seen at his children's school and sporting events from lacrosse, softball, bowling, baseball, gymnastics, soccer, field hockey, basketball and horseback riding. Russ traveled often with family and friends to local and far away places. He worked on the farm producing vegetables and hay and enjoyed interacting with the customers. He enjoyed many different sports, watching and attending Red Sox games, watching Minnesota Vikings games, watching and attending NASCAR races. He enjoyed hunting deer with his brother, wife, children, nephew and friends. He spent many hours with help from family and friends making continuous renovations on the family home.
We would like to thank so many people for their kindness and help during this difficult time.
A celebration of life will be held on November 17th 2024, 1pm – 4pm at the Poquetanuck Fire Department at 87 Route 2A in Preston where he served as a volunteer for 46 years.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Poquetanuck Fire Department.