Russell (Russ) W. Kinaman, age 91, passed away at his home in Essex, VT on May 26, 2026.

He was born December 8, 1934 in New York City to Russell B. Kinaman and Dorothy Simmons Kinaman. Growing up in White Plains, NY, he was an avid supporter of sports and active in Boy Scouts, earning his Eagle Scout rank. He graduated from the University of Maine in 1958 with a BS degree in bacteriology. Russ was an active member of Alpha Tau Omega fraternity which he continued to support throughout his life as well as the University. Having earned his commission through ROTC, he served two years in the U.S. Army as a chemical officer, mostly at Ft. Belvoir, VA where he met his wife, Lilo Weihe, and they were married in 1962.

Russ began a 30 year career in sales in 1961 with the Upjohn Pharmaceutical Company, first in the DC area, then Philadelphia, and finally in Vermont, much more convenient for good skiing. Russ had been active with the National Ski Patrol at Blue Knob and Camelback Ski Areas in PA, so joined the Smugglers Notch Patrol in the mid-70's. In the early 80's he joined the ski school at Sugarbush North and the family (Lilo, son Jeff, and daughter Kristen) spent nearly every winter weekend on the slopes. In the late 90's, Russ became a volunteer with Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports, especially finding satisfaction with teaching visually impaired skiers.

The family went hiking often. Russ and son Jeff hiked the Long Trail over 6 months in 1980, with Lilo and Kristen often helping to spot a car and hiking part way. In the 80's and 90's he entered a number of running races, marathons, and triathlons. He became an avid biker and enjoyed many day trips and multi-day rides in VT, other parts of New England and Quebec. Many were fund raisers for the American Lung Association. In later years, he took up cross-country skiing, telemarking, and kayaking. Other interests included volunteer church work, Eagle Scout Boards of Review, and participating in outings of the Green Mountain Club and Burlington Ski and Outing Club. He always enjoyed attending concerts and plays.

Traveling took Russ and Lilo to many islands to snorkel in the Caribbean as well as Costa Rica, Belize, Panama, and especially the Galapagos. They visited many U.S. national parks and loved the coast of Maine and Monhegan Island. More recently they traveled to Iceland and Norway, and enjoyed a European river cruise.

Above all, Russ was very proud of what his children, Jeff and Kristen, accomplished, though he would admit he didn't tell them often enough. He was also proud of how Jeff and his wife Didi have raised their children, Ally and Ben, and has enjoyed following their interests as they have matured into adults.

Russ was predeceased by his father and mother, infant daughter Lisa Michele, and daughter Kristen. He is survived by his wife Lilo of 63 years, son Jeff (Didi), grandchildren Ally and Ben, sister Linda Broughton (Joe, niece Lindsay Broughton, niece Jody Gustke (Matt) and their three children.

As per Russ' wishes, there will be no memorial service. He said, "Instead, take a walk in the woods or make a few turns on the ski hill and think of me." Russ was very grateful to live in VT for nearly 50 years. If desired, a contribution could be made to the Vermont Land Trust or a charity of one's choice in his memory.