By Rose S. Prinzi

“Unforgettable” was Nat King Cole’s signature song, revived decades after his death as a digitally re-recorded duet with his daughter, Natalie. That song was also popular with another father-daughter duo, Russ Germaine and his daughter, Nina. “Unforgettable” was their song, and they were often heard singing it together in the Germaine household.   

To his family and the community, Russ will truly be unforgettable. Upon his unexpected death last December, the Russell Germaine, Sr. Scholarship Music Fund was created by his family with the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation. This fund will assist students majoring in music education or a music-related field.

Many people knew Russ as part owner of the Germaine and Pappalardo Music Shoppe. When loyal customers stopped by the store, they were always assured a welcome smile and dependable music advice from Russ.  A talented musician, one of Russ’s favorite pastimes was playing the trumpet.   He performed with such groups as the Municipal Band, Jamestown Community Orchestra, Living Christmas Tree, Jubilee Brass Quintet of Warren, and the Germaine and Pappalardo Swing Band. During the high school musical season, you could find Russ in the pit of many a Chautauqua County school helping out with production details.

As a teacher at Westfield Academy and then at Falconer Central School, Russ instilled in his students an enduring love of music. In a letter written to Russ’ family, Rudy Galbier, a former student, penned, “Russ, your influence was great, your presence was educational, your friendship was true, and your music was magical.”

However, the love of his life was his own family. He often said that his biggest achievement were his children. Russ would often tell his wife, Mary Ann, how lucky they were to have such great offspring as Nina, Rob, and Russ.

Although family and music were special to him, Russ also enjoyed a good round of golf. Every Thursday during golf season, Russ could be found at the Jackson Valley Country Club Golf Course enjoying the game and sharing his unique brand of humor.

So, it is only fitting that, in his memory, his son-in-law Rusty Dorotics has organized a golf tournament.  It will be held on July 18 at the Jackson Valley Country Club with proceeds to benefit the music scholarship established in his name through the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation. Rusty has organized a fun-filled day for those wishing to join many of Russ’ family and friends. For more information, contact Rusty at dorotics@sbcglobal.net or (216) 536-4691.

And if, like the Germaine family, you are interested in establishing a fund in memory of a loved one, contact the Foundation for more information at 661-3390 or visit www.crcfonline.org.