Russell Amalong

Russell M. Amalong, 88, beloved husband of Betsy (Pontzer) Amalong of Phoenixville died on Monday, December 27, 2021 in the Phoenixville Hospital.

He was born on June 7, 1933 in Jeannette, PA to the late Raymond and Agnes (Miller) Amalong.  He received his Masters Degree in Education from Penn State University and was an Industrial Arts Teacher at Radnor Middle School for many years, where he lost numerous fingertips and most of his hair.

Russell pursued many interests and activities with great passion. He loved barbershop singing and was a member of the Pretzel City Chorus in Reading. His love of the outdoors took him on many fishing, hunting, biking, and epic car trips across North America. From driving to the North Pole, to fly-in fishing in Ontario with each of his children, to crossing the U.S. and Canada numerous times, he was nourished by the landscape, wildlife, and grandeur of nature.

Russ could often be found in his workshop behind the home on West Seven Stars Road, creating unique and beautiful pieces of furniture, cabinets, bowls, and hundreds of other special pieces that adorn the homes of his family and others. He crafted beautiful cherished treasures for each of his children and grandchildren.

Frequently jumping to the help of a friend or family member, especially if it involved driving somewhere, chopping up a tree, working on a house, fixing furniture, or hunting down another dairy farm for ice cream, Russell’s eager generosity and warm smile were well known.

Although only diagnosed about 8 years ago, Russ suffered quietly with Parkinson’s for likely the past 30 years. Undeterred, he became an active cyclist, traversing many Eastern states on multi-day trips, and eventually daily rides through the Kimberton countryside on his electric-assisted bike. He continued his weekly trips to Reading to sing, and attended many annual conventions of the Barbershop Harmony Society International (SPEBSQSA) across the country.

In addition to his devoted Betsy, he is survived by three loving children:  Philip husband of Susan Amalong,  David husband of Caroline LeClair, and Barbara wife of Damon Sink; five adoring grandchildren:  Philip Sink, Laura Sink, John Paul Amalong, Anne Amalong, and Charlotte Amalong;  and brother, Ronald Amalong.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his services at St. Basil the Great Catholic Church, 2340 Kimberton Road, Phoenixville, PA on Monday, January 3, 2022.  A musical tribute will begin at 10:15 am followed by a Funeral Service at 11:00 am with Rev. Gary Pacitti officiating.

There will be no visitation prior to the service. Masks are required in the church.

Burial will follow in St. Ann Cemetery, Phoenixville.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to the Davis Phinney Foundation for Parkinson’s https://davisphinneyfoundation.org/