Christopher Penn Russell

Chris Russell 1945 ~ 2011 Christopher Penn Russell, brother, uncle and dear friend, passed away of natural causes alone in his home where he was found Monday, August 1, 2011. When he uncharacteristically failed to show up for work, his boss and friend went around to check on his welfare. Chris was born March 11, 1945 in Salt Lake City. He graduated from Granite High school in 1963, placing first in the state math contest having taught himself calculus in 9th grade. He serve an LDS Mission to West Germany, then bypassing a master s degree, earned a PhD in Chemical Engineering from the University of Utah in 1974. After working as an adjunct instructor at the University, Chris joined James W. Bunger and Associates Inc. engaged in oil shale extraction research where he was still employed as a mathematical modeler, unique in his field. Chris was a quiet, gentle soul who went through life brilliantly talented and fiercely true to himself. He lived a life of high integrity, logical inquiry, creativity and kindness. He was a proficient pianist who also composed, created art, poetry, prose, mathematical amusements and witty observations of foibles. He is preceded in death by his parents, Clark Parley Russell and Lettie Ballard Squires for whom he was caretaker before they passed in 2003 and 1990, respectively. He will be missed by his siblings, Richard (Inger), Taylorsville; Julie A, Salt Lake City; Scott (Barbara), Highland; Ruth Muffie Milner, Salt Lake City; Mark (Kelly), Herriman; 15 nieces and nephews. Ever a scientist, he willed his remains to the University of Utah Medical school. Memorial services will be held Saturday, August 6, 2011, 3:00 p.m. at McDougal Funeral Home, 4330 South Redwood Road. Hobbies:Playing Piano, writing Poetry & Prose, and ArtOccupation:Mathematical Modeler