Russell Gene Estes
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Russell Gene Estes, age 79, passed away on Tuesday August 09, 2022. He was born on July 18, 1943, to Leonard and Evelyn Estes. Rusty grew up in Lyme, NH, and graduated from Orford High School.
He married his high school sweetheart, Noreen 'Reenie' Gallup, on June 6, 1964, the love of his life. Shortly after they were married they moved to Lyme, NH, where they would become active and lifelong members of their beloved community. Rusty worked for Uline Menard Construction following high school and a short tour in the Army before he was injured in a Boot Camp accident that kept him from continuing his military service. He then co-founded Estes & Gallup Builders with his wife in 1972. For fifty years Rusty worked in partnership with his wife, and ultimately his two sons. He was a successful real estate developer in the Upper Valley working with Noreen. He continued to come by his office daily until the day of his passing, working with his sons and very good friends.
Rusty was passionate about working around his home and spent as much time as he could outside. In his "retirement" years he continued to stay active with small construction jobs. If there was something that had to be fixed or renovated, and that involved being outside, he was ready to take on the project. He was willing to help anyone in need, always offering a helping hand or listening to their needs; he was beyond generous, offering quiet assistance to many. He always took time to listen to a story, offer support and end with a big hug.
Earlier in his life when not working on the many houses he built you would find him snowmobiling with his wife and sons, walking on the beaches in Aruba, splitting firewood with Noreen, and relaxing on their boat at the Goose Pond Camp, 'On the Rocks'. Time at Goose Pond was cherished as he and Noreen watched their sons grow with friends enjoying the spoils of summer. Throughout his life he enjoyed traveling with his wife, family and friends, and would often be planning the next cruise or trip to the beach. Later in his life he was devoted to caring for his wife. After Noreen's passing, and a difficult mourning period, he found the strength to enjoy the simple pleasures of life listening to music on his porch watching the sunset, going on long drives in his red mustang, attending football games with friends and family, water-color painting, dinner parties with cherished friends and family, and working on his land. He continued to travel with family and friends, moments he treasured. His most recent plans to travel the US by train were interrupted by his unexpected passing. Rusty enjoyed being social and would spend countless hours with family and friends. His laughter, smile and amazing openness to others will be missed by many. He was known to make and find friends wherever he went; his laughter was contagious and energy unparalleled.
Rusty's pride and joy was his children and grandchildren. He spoke often and was proud of them all. Rusty is survived by his children Tim and Nick Estes; grandchildren Zachary, Hailey, Samantha, Felix and Isabel. He cherished and loved his family and taught them the invaluable lessons of how to live life to its fullest, never taking a day for granted. We will miss you.
A funeral service will be held at the Lyme Congregational Church on Saturday September 17, 2022 at 11:00 AM followed immediately by a Celebration of Life to be held at The Dowd's Inn in Lyme, NH. A private family burial will be held the following day. If desired, friends may make contributions in lieu of flowers to the Lyme Foundation P.O. Box 292 Lyme, NH 03768.
To view an online memorial and/or leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit, www.rand-wilson.com.