Russell Chihoski

Russell was born in Providence, Rhode Island to Alexander and Helen Chihoski on September 23, 1931 as the oldest of three brothers. During the summers of his childhood, he was free to roam the coast of Rhode Island near Gaspee Point which stirred his affinity for adventure and sailing. 

Russell then went to MIT, where he met Caroline Disario, his future wife. After graduating with a degree in Metallurgical Engineering, he served in the Air Force from 1954–1956, where he enjoyed being in charge of many men. Russell and Caroline were married in 1957 in Caracas, Venezuela and were married for 67 years.

After serving in the Air Force, Russell embarked on a lifelong career with the Martin Marietta Company in 1957, which took him and his growing family from Baltimore to California, Idaho, and finally to Littleton, Colorado. There, he designed a family home where he lived with Caroline for 61 years. The family attended St. Mary Catholic Church, where the children also received their education, creating many lifelong friendships and building a supportive community that played a beautiful role in their lives. Russ loved introducing his six children to different camping and nature adventures, encouraging them to step outside their comfort zones. 

Russell had many accomplishments during his career at Martin Marietta, including a silver and gold medal from American Welding Society (’70), Author of the Year (‘71, ‘80,’ 84), and Inventor of the Year (‘73). He also published academic papers and lectured and contributed in panel discussions at MIT, Ohio University, the Air Force Academy, University of Colorado, Colorado School of Mines and the University of Tennessee. Russ retired in 1991, after 33 years at Martin. 

One of his favorite pastimes throughout his whole life was being on the water. He built a sailboat while still in high school, a rowboat when newly married to Caroline, and lastly, another sailboat when his children were teenagers. After retirement, he finally succumbed to buying a sailboat, which he sailed around Chatfield with many guests, creating unforgettable adventures on the water.

In addition to sailing, during retirement Russell traveled overseas to Europe and Asia (which he especially loved), indulged his intellectual curiosity through lifelong learning, spent time with family, and wrote a book sharing his perspectives on the world (Speed of Light Men’s Club).

Russell died in Littleton, CO on September 14, 2024, with loved ones close by. He is survived by his wife Caroline and children: Helen (Enrique- deceased), Mary (Doug), Teresa (Bob), Gabriel (Luanne), Paul (Kasie). He is also survived by 15 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren, his brother Donald Chihoski, and six nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his son, Russell F. Chihoski, and his brother, George H. Chihoski.

Rosary & viewing at 10:30 and Funeral Mass at 11:00 on October 4, 2024 at St. Mary Catholic Parish Littleton.