Mr. James E. Russ, 91, a resident of the Masonic Care Community in Utica, formerly of Clinton, passed away on Wednesday, March 9, 2010, at the nursing home. James was born in Little Falls, NY, on June 11, 1918, the son of John E. and Sarah (Long) Russ, and was a graduate of Poland High School. On October 10, 1942, James married Frances Jane Roberts in New Bern, NC, a blessed union of 64 years until Frances death in 2006. James proudly served in the US Army during WW II and was honorably discharged, having earned the rank of Captain. For over 50 years, he was employed as a carpenter with Alt Construction Company until his retirement. James was a member of Masonic Lodge #455 in Newport and the Upstate Carpenters Union. He enjoyed fishing and hunting, but most of his enjoyment came from time spent at his camp on West Canada Creek. James will be remembered as a craftsman who worked in many local churches and on his own property. Mr. Russ is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Carolyn and Fred Hund, of New Hartford; beloved granddaughter, Terry Draper and her husband, John, of Prospect; two great-grandchildren, Justine Draper and Abigail Draper, both of Prospect; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by two sisters, Mary Margaret Casey and Agnes Boh, and a brother, John Russ. A graveside service will be held at Prospect Cemetery in the spring. Mr. Russ family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of the Masonic Care Community, Monticello Neighborhood, for providing compassionate care above and beyond what could have been expected. Arrangements have been entrusted to Heintz Funeral Service, Inc., Clinton.