The Tim Russell Kind Spirit Award
In the summer of 2008, the city of Duluth lost a remarkable young man named Tim Russell. Though his life was brief, his impact was profound, touching the lives of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Tim was known not just for his infectious laughter and love of life, but for his unwavering commitment to making sure everyone around him felt included, valued, and—most importantly—joyful.
Today, Tim’s legacy lives on through the Tim Russell Kind Spirit Award, created by his family to honor his memory and celebrate the qualities that made him so extraordinary.
A Life Lived with Joy
Tim Russell possessed a rare and beautiful gift—the ability to bring joy into the lives of others, even in the simplest moments. His generosity wasn’t about grand gestures; it was about making people feel seen, valued, and loved. One touching memory his parents share is of a time when Tim noticed a classmate who was struggling at home. Without hesitation, Tim insisted that the classmate join his family for back-to-school shopping, ensuring he had everything he needed to start the year with confidence. It wasn’t just about the supplies—it was about letting his friend know that he mattered, that he wasn’t alone. This was the essence of Tim’s spirit: a profound kindness that touched everyone he met.
Even as he faced his own health challenges, Tim’s spirit never dimmed. He had a way of charming everyone around him, from charging his pediatric neurologist, Dr. Richard Kanoff, $5 for every blood draw to the nurses he playfully insisted be blonde. Whether blowing bubbles and dancing to fun music with his fellow campers at MDA Summer Camp or organizing the annual Russell Family Holiday Party & Talent Show, Tim’s joy was a constant presence in the lives of those around him.Tim’s infectious joy was also the reason his father, Dan, and his stepmother, Michelle, who was the Health Care Services Coordinator for the local chapter of the Muscular Dystrophy Association at that time, found each other. They met through Tim, and as their relationship blossomed, it was clear that Tim’s blessing was the one that mattered most. “I fell in love with Tim first—his joy and kindness,” Michelle recalls. “Through him, I connected with this incredible family, which led me to meeting Dan and the beginning of our love story.”
When Tim was originally diagnosed as a child, the doctors labeled his condition as “Failure to Thrive”—a prognosis that couldn’t have been further from the truth. Later, he would be diagnosed with a Mitochondrial Disease, the same condition that had claimed his mother, Carolyn, in 2002. Yet, even as the disease took its toll, Tim’s love for life never wavered.
The Birth of the Kind Spirit Award
In 2023, years after Tim’s passing, Dan and Michelle attended a scholarship night at Duluth East High School, beaming with pride as their daughter received an award. But as they watched, they noticed something that troubled them—students with developmental disabilities, like Tim, were noticeably absent from the recognition. These remarkable young people, who overcome so much, weren’t being celebrated for their unique gifts.
That night, Dan and Michelle decided to change that. They wanted to honor Tim’s legacy by ensuring that students like him were seen, valued, and celebrated. “We walked out of there as proud parents,” Dan recalled, “but we also felt these remarkable students and their support system should share in the joy and pride of being recognized.”
And so, the Tim Russell Kind Spirit Award was born. Initially intended for Duluth East students, the award was soon expanded to include Denfeld High School, where Tim’s mother, Carolyn, had attended. It has become a way to honor both Tim and Carolyn while ensuring that the award has a lasting impact on the community.
With the help of the Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation (DSACF), the Russell’s brought their vision to life. “The experience working with the Foundation was incredibly positive,” Michelle shared. “They guided us through the process, and have made the process to donate toward the award seamless.”
A Legacy That Continues to Grow
The response to the Tim Russell Kind Spirit Award has been overwhelming. Contributions have poured in, many in honor of Dan’s recent 70th birthday, ensuring that the award will become a permanent fixture in the Duluth community. For the Russell’s, the award is about more than just financial support—it’s about recognizing the unique qualities that made Tim so special and giving other students the +opportunity to experience the pride and joy that come from being acknowledged for their positive impact.
As they look to the future, Dan and Michelle are filled with hope. The Tim Russell Kind Spirit Award is not just a way to remember Tim but a way to keep his spirit alive, spreading the joy he brought to the world. “It is devastating to lose a son,” Dan reflected, “but there is a sense of comfort knowing he made such a big difference in his short life.”
Thanks to the support of the DSACF and the incredible generosity of the community, the Tim Russell Kind Spirit Award will continue to do just that—honoring Tim’s legacy, celebrating kindness and inclusion, and bringing generations of joy to come.
Click here to make a contribution to the Tim Russell Kind Spirit Award
Create a Lasting Impact with Us
Interested in creating a lasting legacy? By establishing a fund at the Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation, you can make a difference in the causes you care about most. Whether you want to support education, the arts, or community development, DSACF offers personalized support to help you achieve your charitable goals.
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