On behalf of the Randall-Reilly Publishing Company, I want to extend my deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Mike Russell, American Trucking Associations’ vice president of public affairs, who died in a whitewater rafting accident in Colorado on June 15.
Russell’s death is a tremendous loss to the entire trucking industry, and for those of us who were privileged to know him, he will be missed greatly. His love for the industry was evident in his enthusiasm and relentless campaigning on its behalf. Programs such as America’s Road Team, Share the Road and Good Stuff flourished under his guidance. He was regarded as the “super-promoter” for the trucking industry, a title he worked tirelessly to earn.
Russell, 64, jointed ATA in 1999 after serving as director of public and consumer affairs for the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration within the U.S. Department of Transportation. He was involved in many industry trade shows, state trucking association meetings and ATA’s media training and communications committee.
Russell was a graduate of Boston University and the Milton Hershey School, and was a four-year veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps. He is survived by his wife, Rita; a daughter, Michelle; a son-in-law, Mike; a granddaughter, Morgan; and several siblings. The family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, contributions be donated in memory of Mike Russell to the Milton Hershey School Alumni Association. The Russell family expresses their appreciation for the outpouring of love and support they have received during this difficult time.
Donations:
Hershey Heritage Foundation
P.O. Box 106 | Hershey, PA 17033
Cards and letters:
In care of Rita Russell or The Family of Mike Russell
2200 Mill Road | Alexandria, VA 22314
