Oct. 4. David Russell, a long-time former bartender at The Peninsula Club, was swept away by the flood waters that overtook his mountain retreat in Western North Carolina on Thursday, Sept. 26. Club members remembered him fondly this week as well as his wry sense of humor.
David Russell
He enjoyed cooking, fishing and caring for his deaf rescue dog.
He lived in Alaska for four years and one of his favorite stories was of standing in a stream catching salmon while a bear or moose stood on the shore watching.
A week after Hurricane Helene passed through the Southeast the death toll has surpassed 200.
David was such a joy in my life for the 14 years we were members of the Peninsula Club. He always greeted me with a smile, a wise crack and a hug. His mother was his dearest friend and he spoke of her with a twinkle in his eye always. David wasn’t “just a bartender,” although he mixed an incredible Bloody Mary for me, he was a source for sports analysis, fishing advice and funny jabs we gave back and forth. I will ALWAYS treasure his memory and how he made Bob and I feel truly loved at our club.
–Meredith Joy Fite
I am so sorry to hear this.
RIP David, you will be sorely missed. You touched many lives.
My heart and prayers go out to family, friends, co-workers, and to all of those in the commumity who loved him.
David was an incredible fella. Through the years at TPC, his calm and cool personality drew you in. It was a treasure to get to know him, sharing stories of dogs, family, and other things. And his CAR! He was just a special guy. Hard to comprehend. Feel blessed to have known him and hold dear the fond memories.
David was special. I always enjoyed talking with him at the bar. He was a real asset to the Club and always remembered everyone’s name. This is so sad. So young….
Susie and I are deeply saddened by the untimely death of David Russell due to Hurricane Helene. It feels surreal to process, and we struggle to find the right words. David was a great asset to The Peninsula Club during his years there. His dirty martinis were unforgettable—perfectly balanced and a true reflection of his understanding of a member’s tastes.
I’ll always remember his prized blue Monte Carlo, a symbol of his meticulous care and style. It wasn’t just a car; it was a piece of him. His love for his dog was something truly special; it showed a tenderness that contrasted beautifully with his otherwise reserved exterior. He certainly loved his days playing disc golf.
It’s hard to imagine that he is gone so soon. But in the sorrow, let’s celebrate the memories and the unique imprint he left on all of us. David’s presence was a gift, and his spirit will continue to live on in the stories we share.
– Charlie Norman