News - Sandy Chapter Member, Russ Nishitani Passed Away Unexpectedly

Those of us who knew Russ Nishitani have lost a great friend. 

The Sandy chapter has lost a member who epitomized and exemplified what is best about NW Steelheaders and what it means to give back to our sport. Russ passed away in his sleep in the evening, on 2/25/14. He was born 7/20/1946.  His passing was a shock to his wife, Sandy and son Collin and daughter Alison.  Joli and I are sure this is also shocking to all of us who knew him.  Russ was one of those people who if you knew him, you considered him a friend – one of a kind.

Russ has been a great sport fisherman from a very young age.  He didn’t join the Sandy Chapter to learn to fish, but to give back to the resource.  In fact he participated in a chapter project before joining!  In spite of living in Tualatin, he showed up at river cleanups and other events for many years.  Russ and his wife Sandy could always be counted on to help when ever asked.  Sandy often helped Joli and Kathryn at Sandy Chapter meals and picnics.  Aside from the in stream projects, Russ also helped out with meals.  He was good at the barbeque grill.

Several of you have asked about attending a service. 

There will be a Remembrance of Russell Nishitani on Sunday, March 9th at 12 noon at the home of his Brother.  The address is 4028 Orchard Drive, Lake Oswego, OR 97035, (971) 506-9982. This will be a very casual affair and I hope you can join Sandie, Allison, and Colin.

Russ got this Chinook during a Sandy Chapter Tillamook Fish-Along.