Russell Allen Harden passed away with his wife by his side on Sunday, August 11, 2024, in Greenwich after a courageous and dignified two-year battle with lymphoma.
Born in Des Moines, Iowa, in 1942 to Raymond and Fern Harden, Russ spent his youth in Minneapolis, MN. He proudly served in the Army National Guard after earning a degree in Economics from Grinnell College.
Following his time in Iowa, he moved to New York City, where he earned an MBA and embarked on a distinguished career in advertising sales, holding key positions with Aetna, Time Inc., Institutional Investor, and Bloomberg LP.
For 40 years, Russ was a beloved member of the Greenwich community. Known for his impeccable dress and gentlemanly demeanor, he cherished socializing with family and friends. He was especially known for his skill in crafting the perfect cocktail and his delightfully corny jokes. An avid sports enthusiast, Russ enjoyed coaching and cheering for his twins' youth teams and relished time on the hockey rink, ski slopes, paddle tennis court and golf course.
He was a member of The Stanwich Club and actively involved in town life: volunteering for Call-A-Ride, serving as President of both the Rotary Club and The Retired Men's Association, and on the board of The First Church of Round Hill.
Russ is survived by his loving wife of 25 years, Elizabeth Hough-Harden; his brother, John Harden (Barbara) of Minneapolis; his sister, Barbara Erdall of Minneapolis; his daughter, Paige Pinter (Greg) of New Orleans; his son, Spencer Harden (Kari) of Colorado; and three grandchildren, George Pinter, Hazel Harden, and Theo Harden. He leaves behind many treasured friends, family members and business associates.
A celebration of his life will be held September 24 at 10:00am at First Presbyterian Church of Greenwich. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in honor of Russ to Greenwich Hospital or to a charity of your choice.
