Kevin C. Russell

WEST BERKSHIRE – Kevin C. Russell, age 62, passed away on Saturday, March 19, 2022 at his home in West Berkshire.  

He was born in Honolulu, Hawaii on September 25, 1959 to Alice (Kane) Swainbank and the late Carlton Russell.

Kevin graduated from Enosburg High School in 1977 and continued his education at Phoenix Institute of Technology supporting his passion for mechanics. Kevin was an expert and gifted auto mechanic. If Kevin couldn’t fix it, it couldn’t be fixed. He taught students in the Cold Hollow Career Center mechanics program and loved knowing he made a positive impact on some of their future careers. One of Kevin’s biggest accomplishments was owning and operating KARS, Kevin’s Automotive Repair Services in West Berkshire for many years, and prior to that he was a mechanic for SB Collins. Kevin loved to relive and share the stories of working as the Pit Crew for ACT/Jean-Paul Cyr’s car, and fixing Dale Earnhardt’s car when no one else was able to, and test driving with him around the track. He loved to sit on the deck and listen to loud Hawaiian music, or Jimmy Buffet, while barbecuing. Kevin also loved to watch Nascar on Sundays. Kevin loved life, people and to entertain. Kevin could fix anything with a motor and four wheels, but the disease of alcoholism was a battle he couldn’t fix. His family and friends feel disappointed and saddened that appropriate help was not given in a timely manner when he needed it most. Remembering the old Kevin, the happy Kevin is how he would want everyone to remember and celebrate him.   

He is survived by his mother, Alice Swainbank of St. Albans; his siblings, Karen Elwood and her husband Steve of St. Albans, and Wayne Russell and his wife Jackie of Sheldon; niece and nephews, Doug Elwood, Shayley and Benjamin Russell; great nephew, Jack Elwood; a special aunt, Pat Kane-Breure; a special longtime friend, Tina Laroche of Alburgh; a special canine companion, Auto; and several aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Besides his father, Kevin was predeceased by many aunts and uncles, especially, Herman Kane and Beatrice Reynolds; a loyal canine companion, Blue; and a great friend, Cliff Bullis.

In respecting Kevin’s wishes, his family is holding a private Life Celebration.

For those who wish, contributions in Kevin’s memory may be made to Cold Hollow Career Center, C/O Automotive Technology Program, P.O. Box 503, 184 Missisquoi Street, Enosburg Falls, VT 05450.

Goss Life Celebration Homes is the area’s exclusive provider of Life Celebration events. Please visit our website to share condolences, photos and favorite memories at www.gossfs.com