Marin, CA

Russ (RCJL), passed away at home with his wife and son at his bedside. Russell Charles Lease grew up on 8th Avenue in the Richmond District of San Francisco and attended George Washington High School and City College of San Francisco. While at Washington High he excelled at swimming, earning All-City honors for breaststroke his senior year. He was an avid surfer at Kelly’s Cove and worked as a lifeguard at the famous Fleishhacker Pool. In 1966, Russ entered the 26th Fire Academy Class. In 1967, Russ met Marilyn Constantino after moving into the same apartment complex. They married in 1973 and settled in Marin, where they raised their son Brian.

Russ truly loved being a firefighter and he proudly served the SFFD for 37 years, working mostly out of Station 12. He received the Firefighter of the Year award for heroism in 1970. Russ treasured the bonds of friendship that were formed and continued throughout his life. He was number one on the department’s seniority list before retired as a lieutenant in 2004.

Russ looked forward to family vacations every summer at his beloved Blue Lakes with the entire Lease clan spanning 5 generations. His son, Brian, first visited Blue Lakes at just two weeks old, it was there that his father introduced him to fishing and a love for the great outdoors. Russ also instilled in Brian a deep appreciation for family, which Brian now carries forward with his own family.

Russ had many friends from all aspects of his life as he was so genuinely kind and outgoing. He was everyone’s “pal.” His daily coffee group meant the world to him and he rarely missed a day. His Tuesday group brought an extra measure of joy and laughter. Russ was a very happy man.

Russ is survived by his wife of 52 years, Marilyn, his son, Brian (Arianna), granddaughter, Charlotte, sister, Holly and many, many nieces and nephews. Russ is predeceased by his sisters, Christine and his twin Louella.

A Funeral Mass will be held 11:00am, Wednesday, July 2, 2025 at St. Isabella Catholic Church, 1 Trinity Way, San Rafael.

Assisted by Monte’s Chapel of the Hills, San Anselmo.