Christopher (Topher) C. Russell, 38, Potsdam

POTSDAM -- Christopher (Topher) C. Russell, 38, of 7019 State Highway 56, tragically passed away on Tuesday,  July 16, 2024, at Upstate University Hospital.

Christopher was born on December 8, 1985, in Bennington, VT, the son of Sheila (Purves) Pascarella and the late Morris Russell.

He attended Potsdam Central School.

He and his Partner of 19 years were co-owners of Bows and Bandana Pet Salon & Resort in Potsdam.

Everyone who knows Topher knows that he was a free spirit, who lived life on his own terms, the way he wanted.

He loved music and sang regularly, without care for who might be listening.

Christopher lived life to the fullest and would do anything for anyone.

A pet groomer by trade, he loved animals and could make connections when no one else could.

Christopher is survived by his partner, Chris Tayler; his mother, Sheila and step-father, Jason Pascarella of Pyrites; his brother, Jason (Chelsea) Russell, and his niece, Lainey Russell of West Stockholm.

He was predeceased by his father, Morris Russell.

Friends may call at the Donaldson~Seymour Funeral Home on Tuesday, July 30, from 4-7 PM and a service will be held at 7PM with Rev. Skip Edie officiating.

Burial will take place at West Stockholm Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Memorial donations may be made in Christopher’s memory to the Norwood Volunteer Fire Department, Potsdam Volunteer Rescue Squad and/or Burn Foundation of CNY (PO Box 11277, Syracuse, NY 13218-1217).

Our free-spirited Topher is now truly a free spirit.

Please share your condolences and favorite memories online at www.donaldsonseymour.com.