Russell (Russ) W. Dilly, 47, died at his home in Flagstaff, Arizona, on February 21, 2017.

Russ was born in Helena, Montana on January 5, 1970. He attended Elementary School in Clancy, Montana and 2 years of High School in Boulder, Montana before moving to Phoenix, AZ in 1987. After graduating Chaparral High School, he then attended Arizona State University in Tempe, AZ, before moving to Flagstaff to complete his education at Northern Arizona University.

As a young boy of 14, Russ had a diving accident at Canyon Ferry Dam ending his football ambitions. The accident stripped Russ of his ability to walk or use his hands, but that did not stop him from living a life of joy and giving. Everyone who came into his circle was fortunate to have known him.

Russ had a profound love for the English language. He was an artist with words and with his friendships, weaving together people from all walks of life. A master at laughter, Russ never let his quadriplegia stop him from having a great time. He took part in wild parties and concerts went on hunting and camping trips and visited many exotic locales around the US.

Russ is survived by his long-time partner and best friend, Larissa Madrigal of Flagstaff, AZ; his mother, Barbara Vogl, Cottonwood, Arizona; his father Daryl Dilly, Helena, Montana; his sister, Carri Dilly, Billings, Montana; and his much loved Grandmother, Helen Vogl Fallini, Helena, Montana. Russ is also survived by Aunts and Uncles and cousins in Montana and Oregon, plus countless friends; especially Matt Faull, JB Schonwald, Rodney Peterson, Barb White, Bill Frey, Joe Carter, Sharon Harris, Asa Logan, and Carlos Cordova, all of whom he considered family.

Russ left feeling profound gratitude for all who helped him throughout his life and knowing he will be remembered by many and mourned by a few…………….

Donations honoring Russ can be given to Shriners Hospital or a Pet Rescue Center.

A memorial will be Saturday, March 11th at the Elks Lodge at 2pm.