In Memoriam: Christopher Austin 'Clipper' Russell, 67

Christopher Austin “Clipper” Russell, 67, passed away on May 20, 2025. Born on August 21, 1957, in Chicago, Illinois, Chris lived a life marked by dedication, warmth, and an unwavering love for family, music, and the water.

Chris began his education at St. Ignatius grade school and later graduated from Sullivan High School in Chicago. His early years were filled with the vibrant energy of city life, and it was during this time that he met Pam—an encounter that would shape the rest of his life. What began as a chance meeting quickly blossomed into a close friendship and then a lasting romance. The couple married on June 18, 1983, embarking on a journey together that would include raising two sons and building a home filled with laughter and love.

They settled in Park Forest, Illinois, where they created a warm and welcoming household. Chris and Pam shared many joys—hosting dinners for friends and family, watching movies and television shows together, and finding humor in the everyday moments of life. Their bond was one of mutual respect and companionship.

Faith played a central role in Chris’s life. He became an active member of St. Lawrence O'Toole Catholic Church in Matteson, Illinois, where he found not only spiritual fulfillment but also a community that he cherished deeply. Chris contributed to parish life in many ways: he served as a lector during Masses, organized bingo nights that brought people together in fellowship and fun, and ministered communion to the sick—offering comfort to those who needed it most.

Chris’s favorite prayer was the Serenity Prayer—a guiding light that reflected his approach to life: accepting what he could not change, courageously changing what he could, and seeking wisdom to know the difference. He lived these words daily through his actions and interactions with others.

Chris built a remarkable career in the hotel industry that spanned decades. He began his journey in hospitality in entry-level roles and steadily worked his way up through hard work and determination. Over the years, he held various positions from Banquet Manager to General Manager. His career culminated as the Food & Beverage Manager at the Sheraton Grand in downtown Chicago, where he served with distinction. Chris was recently honored with the Quarter Century Club status from Marriott in recognition of his 25 years of service and commitment to excellence. Affectionately referred to as “Mr. Hospitality,” Chris was admired by colleagues and employees alike for his kindness, compassion, and ever-present smile.

Beyond his professional life, Chris was a man of many passions. His love for rock and roll was legendary among those who knew him. Whether donning a Pink Floyd tee or his favorite Santana shirt, Chris’s wardrobe was a tribute to the music that shaped him. He delighted in sharing stories of concerts from his youth and made sure to pass down his musical tastes to the next generations—his children and grandchildren all knew the correct answer to “Who is the greatest rock band of all time?”: Led Zeppelin. Wherever Chris was, rock music played in the background, creating an atmosphere that reflected his vibrant spirit.

Chris also had a lifelong connection to water that began during his childhood involvement with the Tuohy Beach summer program. From junior lifeguard to a lead lifeguard, he embraced every opportunity to be near the water. This passion continued throughout his life—first with trips to the Aqua Center in Park Forest with his sons and later through cherished summer visits to Michigan beaches with his grandchildren. Silver Beach and South Haven Beach became treasured destinations where Papa Chris shared sunsets and splashes with those he loved most.

Fishing was another joy that brought Chris closer to family and friends. Whether casting lines at local ponds with his grandchildren or embarking on annual camping trips, he found happiness in watching their excitement when they caught their first fish. In recent years, Chris deepened this passion through fishing trips with lifelong friends Lenny, Steve, Ron, and Gershon—adventures filled not only with impressive catches but with laughter and camaraderie.

Chris is survived by his beloved wife Pam; his sons Nicholas (Erin) Russell and Alexander Russell; his grandchildren Noah, Caleb, Emilia, and Parker; and his siblings Paula Weiss, Tony Russell, and Jennifer Weeden. He was preceded in death by his parents Denis and Nancy Russell.

Chris’s legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched—with every warm greeting at work, every shared song lyric around a campfire, every splash in Lake Michigan, and every quiet moment spent fishing beside someone he loved.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and continue to inspire joy for generations to come. A Wake and Funeral Mass will be held on June 21, 2025. The wake will start at 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM followed by a funeral celebration Mass at St. Stephen Deacon & Martyr 17500 84th Ave. Tinley Park, IL 60477.

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