Michael Russell
Mike passed away on September 9th , 2025, peacefully surrounded by people that loved him.
For the last 25 years, Mike was a beloved part of the Lifeskills/Easterseals family. In that time, he built deep and lasting bonds—not only with his housemates, but especially with the staff who stood by his side every day. Mike had an incredible capacity for love, and he gave it freely to everyone who supported him. He didn’t just appreciate the people around him—he truly loved them. And that love was returned, deeply and wholeheartedly, by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Mike had a playful sense of humor and loved to talk about how much whiskey he wanted—though he always turned it down when it was actually offered. He had a big heart and a wide range of interests that brought him joy. He was a devoted fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and the Dallas Cowboys, and he cherished the Swinnie/Counts family and his beloved nieces, Emily and Lauren. Mike loved singing and dancing to Elvis, which brought a smile to everyone around him. Mike also enjoyed watching Matlock and spending quality time with the staff who became like family to him. And, every now and then, he enjoyed reminding everyone just how many colorful curse words he knew.
Mike is the son of late James and Albertia Russell. Mike is survived by his brother Jimmy Russell.
The memorial service and burial will be held 9/26/25 at Memorial Park Cemetery at 3:00 pm .
Mike has been part of the Swinnie/Counts family for 23 years. He will be missed at all the family gatherings as well as his daily phone calls to his second mom. His nieces Emily and Lauren were an important part of his life. He always said “I love them so much” Easter Seals staff also was family and I know all of our lives will have a big void without Mikie.
My relationship with Mike lasted the five years that I supported him through my job. The steady stream of new staff members, various quality and quantity of those relationships and their eventual conclusions wasn’t easy for Mike. Who could blame him? He was a smart man with a very big heart. Mike was an expert in interpersonal relations. I tried to visit after my job ended but it upset him so much that I did not return. Of course upsetting him was the exact opposite of my intent. He appreciated and valued loyalty and consistency, and I think he was trying to close a door. When working for him, I realized early that the more intimately I cared for him, the more he rewarded me. When I worked within his personal space, cutting his nails, flossing his teeth, or cleaning his ears, his sweetness was legendary. He was so appreciative and expressed his gratitude with direct sincerity and kindness. I really, really liked Mike. He was a good egg who drew a rotten hand but made the best of it. My favorite thing to do with him was drive around his childhood neighborhoods and listen to stories of his young life with his mother. Mike was so sweet and open. He adored all of the second extended family he formed with Jackie and Jim Swinnie. Thank god for them all— true angels walking the earth. I am truly sorry for their very great loss. Mike was one of a kind who I’ll always remember with fondness and be grateful that I got to know.