Obituary: Russ Myette, retired supervisor of janitors
Russell J. “Russ” Myette, 75, of Northampton, a retired supervisor of janitors at Physical Plant, died Oct. 13 after a seven-year battle with ALS, Lou Gehrig’s disease.
Born in Northampton he left school at an early age and worked at a variety of trades and professions, including more than 37 years at Physical Plant. He retired from the Academic Custodial section in 1995.
Myette was well known as the founder of the Connecticut River Christmas tree, which garnered national coverage on television and in Yankee Magazine. For many holiday seasons, the tree floated on a raft in sight of the Coolidge Bridge on Route 9.
He was also the founding member of two Civil War re-enactor units: Northampton’s 10th Mass. Volunteers Co. and the 9th Mass Battery. He helped organize the New England Brigade and achieved the rank of brevet brigadier general as chief of artillery.
He leaves his daughter, Dawn Williams of West Yarmouth; his son, James Myette of South Yarmouth; five grandchildren and a great-granddaughter.
A religious service is being held Monday, Oct. 19 at 10 a.m. in the Drozdal Funeral Home, with burial in St. Mary’s Cemetery.
Calling hours are Sunday, Oct. 18 from 2-5 p.m.
Memorial donations may be made to the ALS Family Charitable Foundation, P.O. Box 229, Buzzards Bay 02532.
October 16, 2009.
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