Russ E. Walts

Russ E. Walts, Alexandria Bay, NY, passed away peacefully May 23, 2024, at River Hospital, where he had been a patient since April 30, 2024.

Russ was born October 28, 1938, in Watertown, NY, the son of Max E. and Marjory Elizabeth Burnham Walts.

He graduated from Alexandria Central School in 1957.

He married the love of his life, Judith Mae Estes on November 27, 1958, at the Reformed Church of the 1000 Isles. Judy passed away on February 28, 2023, from Alzheimer’s.

Russ served in the US Navy from February 18, 1958 - May 15, 1962. Russ was honorably discharged on February 18, 1964. Russ was a high-speed morse-code operator and spent his tour on the USS Waccamaw mostly in the Mediterranean Sea. Russ traveled all over the world and was on tour during the Bay of Pigs and the building of the Berlin Wall. He received two good conduct medals for service. 

Russ settled in Alexandria Bay with his family and went to the Police Academy to become a police officer for 22 years. He retired as Chief of Police for the village of Alexandria Bay in 1984. He then worked as a superintendent of maintenance at Fort Drum.

Russ was a member of the American Legion, the TI Sportsman’s Club, and the Alexandria Bay Fire Department for many years. He was an avid woodworker and won numerous awards for his antique boat. He loved spending time on the St. Lawrence River.

Russ is survived by his son Michael Walts, Alexandria Bay; a daughter Kimberly (Tim) Honeywell, Alexandria Bay; three grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, a brother Max E. Walts Jr. (Frances), Baldwinsville, NY. Russ has nieces, nephews, and cousins in Canada. A son, Russ E. Walts, passed away on December 8, 1986.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, June 1, 2024, from 2-4 at Costello Funeral Home, with a memorial service at 4:00 pm with Rev. Jeff McIlrath presiding. A burial with military honors at Barnes Settlement Cemetery will follow the service. A celebration of life with be held at the American Legion in Alexandria Bay following the burial.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Alexandria Bay Fire Department, 110 Walton St, Alexandria Bay, NY 13607.