Russell Kish died of lung cancer at the age of 60 on May 26, 2009 on his beloved boat in Deer Harbor on Orcas Island.

He was cared for in his last days by his sister Bette Kish, his cousins Blake and Lynn Willeford, and his best friend Willy Maschmeier.

Russell was one of the first hippies on South Whidbey. He lived and worked as a carpenter here for 30 years before moving to Orcas.

He was preceded in death by his mother Margaret Kish of Langley, and is also survived by his cousins Barbara (Brian) Dunne and Casey (Stuart) Millar, and his nephew Brook Willeford.

A celebration of his life will take place at a later date, to be published in the Record.

In lieu of flowers, please convince someone you know to stop smoking.