In Memoriam: Ric Russell, National Matches Referee

May 3, 2024

Civilian Marksmanship Program▸The First Shot▸In Memoriam: Ric Russell, National Matches Referee

By Ashley Dugan, CMP Staff Writer

Ricardo “Ric” Russell, 71, of Oak Park, Mich., passed away on March 6, 2024. He was a longtime volunteer at the Camp Perry National Matches in Port Clinton, Ohio, and a dear friend to the CMP.

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Towering at 6’8”, Ric was a present figure on the range, ensuring safety and proper rulings during competitions and often engaging in friendly conversation with those around him. He attended the annual event each year with his wife, Clara, and their grandchildren.

Ric and Clara were married for 50 years, and he was, as she warmly described, her “Gentle Giant.” The couple had four children together: Ricardo Jr., Antonio, Quentin and Alexandra. They also welcomed 10 grandchildren over the years – five of whom loved Camp Perry as much as Ric and Clara: Daniel, Clara, Aliana, Mi’Cahle and Messiah.

After graduating from Henry Ford High School in Detroit, Ric went on to attend nearby Wayne State University. He served in the Army from 1974 to 1978 and the Army Reserves from 1984 to 1997, with time as an operations sergeant. He also spent over 30 years as a production system analyst for Xerox in Michigan.

Beginning in March 2012, Ric became a firearms instructor and range safety officer, training others on proper range procedures and other marksmanship basics. At the National Matches, he was the National Rifle Association’s Deputy Match Director in 2012 and Chief Referee from 2009 to 2013 before moving on to join the CMP each year after.

The CMP staff members give sincerest condolences to all those who knew him. Ric’s captivating knowledge and charisma will forever be missed on Camp Perry’s ranges.

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