Russell “Big Fella” Gardner was born on November 1, 1965, in Santa Clara, CA. He passed away on August 15, 2024. In his youth, he lived in various places in Northern California, including Meridian, before moving to Colusa in 6th grade. His legend around Colusa County began to grow from that point onward.
Russ graduated from Colusa High School in 1984 and went on to attend Butte College. He later transferred to Chico State University, where he graduated in 1990 with a double major in English and History. He often flaunted his academic achievements whenever Jeopardy was on TV. In addition to his intelligence, Russ was a gifted athlete. He excelled in both football and baseball during high school and continued to make his mark on local softball fields for many years after college. He enjoyed showing off his ability to do the splits while stretching at first base.
After college, Russ worked for Gallo Co., but his true passion for coaching and teaching soon called him. In 1992, he was appointed Defensive Coordinator of the football team at Maxwell High School and never looked back. That season marked the first Northern Section Championship in Maxwell HS history. He continued his education to earn a teaching credential and taught first at O.L.L. before moving to a middle school position in Maxwell. His coaching roles expanded to include head coach and assistant coach for football and baseball at both Maxwell and later Colusa High School. Russ loved his profession, and his dedication was evident in his ability to support students both in the classroom and on the field.
Russ had a profound impact on his students. His quick wit, compassion, and positive energy were felt by everyone he taught. Most students received a nickname from Mr. Gardner, while others remembered a quirky saying for life. Every student learned one or more facts about President Teddy Roosevelt, regardless of their significance. In many homes around Colusa County, he was regarded as a favorite uncle.
Russ was a big man with a booming voice, which he claimed was merely his way of efficiently making large groups laugh. However, his voice and physical stature were dwarfed by his big heart and remarkable memory. He could recall specifics about the lives of everyone he knew, and the sheer number of friends and students he had only made this talent more impressive. His ability to console those facing difficult times will be remembered and appreciated forever.
We are all fortunate to have had the “Big Fella” in our lives. Russ was a big softie, and we hope to honor him by continuing to show the love and compassion he so freely gave to others.
Russ was preceded in death by his father, Edward Gardner; his mother, Lola Jeffers; and his brother, Timothy Gardner. He is survived by his sister, Joyce Feske; his brother, David Lara; and his two nieces, Michelle Higgins and Kristen Snelling.
Donations in memory of Russ can be made to the Colusa Redhawk Athletic Foundation or the Maxwell Blue & Gold Boosters.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 5th, at the Colusa Golf Course from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.