Alexander Russell Harden

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Harden, Alexander Russell "Russ" After more than four years of living courageously with cancer, Russ died on July 27 at his St. Paul home surrounded by love. Born 1953 in Pittsfield, MA, Russ was the son of William Reid Harden and Hope Russell O'Connell Harden. In 1967 during the "summer of love" Russ and family moved to the San Francisco area. His journey continued, leading him to study music at the University of Miami. A trombone hero, Russ performed everywhere from a small travelling circus, to major cruise lines, to backing the likes of Sammy Davis Jr, the Jacksons and Liza Minnelli. He particularly shined in his pistachio-colored leisure suit amidst the Miami disco scene and found fulfillment as a member of the Haitian Magnum Band. Russ's path included a marriage to first wife Virginia Bradley, moves to Houston, Wisconsin and finally the Twin Cities. Along the way, he learned the art and skill of piano tuning and cared for many an instrument and its owner throughout the metro area. Russ's greatest success and most powerful sense of pleasure came from his family. Daughter Molly Rose and wife Laura will forever and always carry his amazing spirit and love within them. Russ also leaves behind sisters Deborah and Jennifer Harden, brothers-in-law Andrei and David, half-sisters Sandra Greenman and Gail Schade, nieces Margaret and Laura, nephews Daniel and Reid, beloved Aunt Patty and mother-in-law Celine, in-laws, many friends and neighbors he loved as family. The world is better for his having lived. We are each better for having known him. Let us find comfort in remembering. A celebration of Russ's life will be at 11:00 am Saturday August 3 at Aldine Park in St. Paul. In lieu of flowers the family asks for written memories for his young daughter, to be sent to PO BOX 40566 St. Paul 55104. Donations to "Harden Family Benefit Fund" may be made at any TCF Bank.

Published on July 30, 2013