A Columbia icon passed away yesterday, Bob Russell. Bob was an original member of the Longfellow Friends of the Traditional 4th that, among other things, gave Columbia it’s longest running and uniquely Columbian 4th of July parade.He served on the Columbia Council representing Harpers Choice for six years.
He emceed every big thing at the lakefront.
He was a Benjamin Franklin impersonator.
He was not married to that Barbara Russell, ever.
He had what people refer to as a ready smile.
I liked that Bob was hip to the times as well. He has a HoCoMoJo page. He even ran a blog for a short period documenting the battle for his life.
He will be missed by many in the town he loved so well.
