Russell "Rusty" Joseph Finch

Russell “Rusty” Joseph Finch, 69 years old from Tuftonboro, NH, passed away on February 27, 2025.  He was born, July 25, 1955, in Watertown, NY to the late Russell W. and Eleanor (Lyke) Finch.

Russell grew up in Black River, New York. He graduated from Carthage Central High School with the class of 1973. After high school, Russell worked in the Adirondacks Mountains of New York in the logging industry for several years.

In 1980, Russell followed the oil boom to South Texas where he met his wife, Priscilla.

In 1983, shortly after the birth of their son, Casey, Russell moved back to New York to work in the family business. Eventually, he settled in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire where the couple had their daughter, Julia.

Russell was a loving and devoted father. Having an affinity for all children, he was a popular visitor at his wife’s daycare, entertaining and being entertained by the kids. His most recent great joy in life was his granddaughter, Marisol. He was an avid outdoorsman where he loved hunting, fishing and spending time in his camper. He loved live music, with a special affinity for the blues, and was known to churn out a mean mix CD for friends. Dogs were a major part of his life and he loved many over his years, especially German Shepherds like his soul dog, Duke.

He is survived by his wife, Priscilla (Perez) Finch, son Casey Finch of Portsmouth, NH, daughter Julia Finch of Aiea, HI, granddaughter Marisol Gillespie of Aiea, HI. He is also survived by his sister Valerie Shippee and her husband Todd of Peru, NY and brother Robert Finch and his wife Donna of Ocala, FL.

The interment will take place on Friday, July 25, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at the Black River Cemetery in Black River, NY. A Celebration of Life will follow at the Finch family home, 29592 Maple Street, Black River, NY for family and friends to come together.

A Celebration of Life will take place on Wednesday, July 30, 2025 from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Finch family home, 10 Oak Leaf Ave., Tuftonboro, New Hampshire for family and friends to come together.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to be made in Russell’s memory to The ISU Iron Dog Fund. This fund supports animals hospitalized in the Lloyd Veterinary Medical Center at the Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine. isufoundation@foundation.iastate.edu or the American Heart Association at americanheartassociation.org.

Lord Funeral Home of Wolfeboro is assisting the family with arrangements. Please visit www.lordfuneralhome.com to leave a message of sympathy or condolence.

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