Russell Crosky

Russell L. Crosky, age 73, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 19, 2026 at his home. A lifelong local, Russell grew up in the Short North and was a proud 1971 graduate of Central High School.  He spoke often of his childhood in that part of the city, becoming street smart on High Street, neighborhood happenings on Summit Street and favorite hangouts like Sacred Heart, Thompson Rec Center and Goodale Park.

His work career started at a very young age as a paper boy for the Columbus Dispatch--often recruiting his siblings to help him. Always working, he held a bevy of jobs throughout his young life until he entered the 'sign shop world' where he seemed to have found his calling. This is where he became an accomplished screenprinter and had always credited the late Arvids Feldmanis for teaching him the intricacies of the craft. Throughout his dedicated printing career, Russell lent his talents to the following companies: Bigham Sign and Display, Morrison Sign Company, Columbus Graphics, Mid-Ohio Screen Print, Amerigraph, Battelle, and Danjell Creations often forming life long friendships with his co-workers. It was that work camaraderie that he missed the most when he retired. 

When he wasn’t at the press, he could be found cheering on his favorite teams: The Ohio State Buckeyes and The Pittsburgh Steelers. His other great passion was music, especially 70s Rock, and had even played drums in his youth. He loved spinning records on his turntable and eventually amassed an impressive album collection throughout the course of his lifetime. Besides music for relaxation, he enjoyed his weed, Bud, fishing, and chillin' in the sun.  He also loved to play the lottery.

Russell lived with and cared for his brother Johnny for the years after Johnny was hurt in a motorcycle accident. That house on Howey Road became a gathering place for many friends and parties throughout their time together. It was during these years, that Russell was reconnected with the Brunton side of his family, immediately gaining a second set of siblings and extended family that he fully embraced.  Also during this time, he met Karin and eventually moved with her to the Westgate area, sharing their home with many beloved pets throughout the years.

Russell is preceded in death by his mother Donna Handley, birth father Russell Brunton, step father Lowell Handley, infant sister Crystal Brunton, brothers Johnny Crosky, Rusty Brunton and brother-in-law Joe Boysel.

He is survived by his forever girlfriend, Karin Harvey, father Frank Crosky, sisters: Shelly Boysel, Tana (Rob) Harris, Tina (Jim) Cline, Shannon (Shan) Collins, Jeanie (Tim) Bunn, Julie (Darrin) Grose; brothers: Bobby (Michelle) Handley, Mike Brunton, Joe (Kelly) Brunton; numerous nieces, nephews, and many other family members.

Family and friends are invited to gather at Jerry Spears Funeral Home with Crematory, 2693 W. Broad St., on Thursday, April 30, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. A memorial service, "Remembering Russell," will begin at 6:00 PM with Pastor Tim Lee officiating. In honor of Russell’s spirit, the family encourages guests to come prepared to share a favorite story or memory of him.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.