Russell G. Press Jr.

Russell George Press Jr., 88, passed away peacefully at his home in the Copperleaf neighborhood of Estero, Florida, on April 23, 2026, surrounded by the comfort of the life and family he cherished so deeply. Born on October 6, 1937, in Hartford, Connecticut, Russ was the son of Russell George Press and Florence Kingsbury. He was raised in Wethersfield, Connecticut, where his strong work ethic took root early. At just 12 years old, he began working on the Morris farm, earning $0.15 an hour tending crops, delivering produce, and rising before dawn to prepare for farmers’ markets. He often reflected on those formative years, crediting them with teaching him the enduring value of hard work, humility, and respect for others. During his junior year at Wethersfield High School, Russ was selected to attend Boys State at the University of Connecticut, a recognition of his leadership potential and character. He graduated in 1955 and went on to attend Clark University in Worcester, Massachusetts, where he was a proud member of the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity and earned a degree in history. He continued his education at the University of Michigan Law School on scholarship, working part-time in the law school kitchen while pursuing his degree. There, he formed a lifelong friendship with his roommate, Jerry Fullmer. Russ began his legal career in Chicago with the American Mutual Insurance Alliance, where he spent five years engaged in lobbying efforts, frequently traveling to Washington, D.C. He later moved to San Francisco to work for Fireman’s Fund, enjoying both the professional opportunity and the beauty of California. He eventually returned to Chicago and later joined The Travelers Insurance Company, where he spent the remainder of his career in Government Affairs and Law. While working at Travelers, he and his family made their home in East Granby, Connecticut, where he was active in the Congregational church. He retired in 1993 at the age of 55. In retirement, Russ and his wife Judith relocated to Naples, Florida, where they embraced the warmth, beaches, and relaxed pace of life. They later settled in Estero, where Russ became an active member of the Copperleaf Country Club community. He enjoyed golfing, socializing with friends, and hosting family gatherings that brought him great joy. Russ lived a full and engaged life. He loved traveling with his family, cheering on his sons at their sporting events, reading, following current events, watching English soccer, and spending time with friends over dinner, movies, coffee, or his cherished Wednesday morning breakfasts. He took great pride in sharing his wisdom and life lessons with his children and grandchildren. Above all, Russ was devoted to his family. He was a modest man who never sought recognition, always placing others before himself. His quiet strength, generosity, and unwavering commitment to those he loved defined his life. He is survived by his beloved wife, Judith Howlett Press; his brother, Roger Henry Press; his sons, Russell George Press III and Stephen Howlett Press; daughters-in-law Gabriela Press and Clara Press; and his cherished grandchildren, Daniela Press, Nicole Press, Andrew Press, and Michael Press. He was predeceased by his sisters-in-law, Jacqueline Howlett Campbell and Jane Press. Russ will be remembered for his kindness, integrity, and the steady, loving presence he provided to all who knew him. His legacy lives on in the family he treasured and the values he instilled in them. A Memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Shikany’s Bonita Funeral Home 28300 Tamiami Tr. S., Bonita Springs, FL with Chaplain Arthur Jones, officiating. To sign his guest register or to leave online condolences please visit www.ShikanyFuneralHome.com. Arrangements are being handled by Shikany’s Bonita Funeral Home Family Owned and Operated Since 1978.

Russell G. Press Jr.

October 6, 1937 - April 26, 2026