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Memorials: Great Falls Worship Group

Russ Salisbury

Date of birth

July 26, 1939

Date of death

Feb. 10, 2019

Meeting

Great Falls Worship Group

Memorial minute

Russ was born in Great Falls and lived most of his life nearby on the banks of the Missouri River. His mother, although not a Quaker, admired and contributed to the American Friends Service Committee. Russ was a regular attender with his wife at our small worship group. Their drive was nearly an hour long, and it involved driving through rain or snow on a “drive way” nearly five miles long. We were not the only attraction for Russ and Elsie, who liked to go to dances after meeting for worship.

As a certified organic farmer and rancher, Russ was a pioneer in the field and a champion of the Earth way before “being green” was cool. Countless individuals and organizations turned to Russ for his progressive thinking, proven techniques, and guidance and generous support. He had the strength to live out the extreme beliefs and ideals that others only talk about. His commitment to his word was his deeds.

He was a master mechanic and collected everything he needed and moved on to his farm. He reused and repurposed or remade everything. He once converted an old school bus into a way to haul cattle down the road. His corral was constructed out of old vehicles.

This was a man who thought deeply and worked hard. As his life came to an end he gave generously to support the love of his life, the Earth.