As a young man, he started out with nothing and ended up being a driving force in the business and entertainment industry, starting the popular country western bar The Pines on Tudor Road before Tudor was even paved. In addition to the ownership of The Pines Club, he also was the successful business owner of The Breeze Inn in Seward, Soldotna Bunkhouse, and the Yellow Rose restaurant in Anchorage. He also worked 15 years for FEMA including 2 tours during Hurricane Katrina. In his final years, he was a successful business owner at Pace Real Estate along side with his wife, Julie Pace.
Russ and Julie met in 1988 and shared a rare and beautiful love for each other that we all wish for. Family was always important with Russ. Julie, his children and grandchildren were very important in his life... as well as his beloved Rottweilers. His generosity towards friends & family was a life standard for him and he contributed heavily to many charities. Russ exuded a quiet strength... he was not a talker, he was a do-er. He loved a down and dirty pinochle game, racing fast cars and racing his snowmachine from Anchorage to Fairbanks He was the first known person to have been towed on waterskis by a float plane at Big Lake! He also loved flying small planes around the state but "forgot" to get his pilot license.
Russ and his wife were very hospitable to any visiting friends, family and anyone in need and the only payment he asked for was a good sense of humor and tolerance for over-friendly Rotts!
Russ is survived by his best friend and loving wife, Julie Pace of Anchorage; brother Larry Pace of Anchorage; daughters Paula Brault and Debbie Larsh of Anchorage, Max Cutler and several loved children and grandchildren of the lower 48. Memorial Service will be on Tuesday, Nov 1, at 2:00pm. Service is located at Christ Community Church at 100th and Victor. Rest in Peace Russ. You were loved by many.
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