Bruce Russell of Ghent, died August 22nd. Bruce was born in Albany, NY to Calvin Russell and the late Sandra Zindle. Bruce is predeceased by his sister Bambi Russell and is survived by 3 sisters and 2 brothers: Heidi Collandra, April Russell, Cheryl Smith, Richard Russell and Gordon Russell and 3 nieces and 4 nephews.      Family will receive friends Thurs. August 27 11am to 12pm at the French, Gifford, Peiter and Blasl funeral home, 25 Railroad Ave., Chatham , NY       Interment will be private. How should I describe Bruce?  What can I say about him that would give anyone who knows him a clearer picture. I don't believe I can. For those who have been privileged enough to know Bruce, already know him very well.  There was no hiding of emotions, or ulterior motives; no putting on airs.  With Bruce, "What you see, is what you get!"      Bruce was born March 26th, and like his astrological sign, "The Ram", often ran head first into any situation. If he happened to catch sight of you from across the room and decided he needed to come over and say hello or give you a big hug (it would most likely be both) his head would bend forward and off he'd shoot, like an arrow to its target, oblivious to any obstacles (including people) standing in the way.  Everyone who knows Bruce has, I'm sure, experienced this situation on at least one occasion and I know they have learned (or should have learned) to just get out of the way!      Whatever the situation, I know that Bruce has never meant to harm anyone.  That is just not in Bruces' nature.  Like a small child he was always excited and hopeful of each new experience; each new adventure; often not knowing what lay ahead, just knowing that he wanted to, "get there", and as soon as possible, please!       Bruce's' path through Life has had its "bumpy" moments, but through it all, he was able to pick himself up, dust himself off, declare, "I'm OK", and press on, determined, excited and hopeful toward the next new adventure.  There was a heart-tugging innocence about Bruce that enabled him to always see and expect the best in people.  He expressed a wonder, a blind faith and a raw courage about Life that few people can.  He loved big and expected and needed big love in return.      To Bruce's' friends (and I include everyone Bruce knew here because Bruce considered everyone a friend) thank you for all the love and support you have given Bruce.  I know he has appreciated every moment and has reciprocated that love as much as he could.      I want to express a special thank you to Chuck Woods for your  kindness and guidance through the years; not only to Bruce but to myself and family.      Another special thank you I need to express is to Bruce's' three most recent caregivers: Edward Keyes and family, Linda Woodward and Diane Davis and family.  Thank you for taking such wonderful care of Bruce.  For giving him the love, attention and security he needed.  I know you hold a special place in his heart as I know he does in yours.  And to Tina, I know he loved you with all his heart. And to you Bruce, as you go off on your big adventure, slow down a little will ya and enjoy all the love and happiness I know you will find there.   And, yes Bruce, it's time to come home.                 For directions or to send an online condolence, visit www.frenchblasl.com.