News

Memoriam and Tribute to David James Russell, Partner – Age 62

November 22, 2022
Attorney David Russell

With our deepest regret, Keller Rohrback L.L.P. announces the passing of father, friend, and colleague, partner David Russell.

David James Russell passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, November 9, 2022. He was born September 20, 1960, in Burlington, Washington, to Terrence and Vivian (Davidson) Russell. 

Before joining Keller Rohrback, David attended the University of Washington, receiving bachelor’s Degrees in Political Science in 1983 and French in 1984. Then he received his Law Degree from Columbia Law School, New York, in 1987 and went into private practice before joining Keller Rohrback in 1994.

David built a notable career and practice group in commercial litigation. Throughout his time at the firm, David handled various cases involving commercial litigation, banking litigation, contract disputes, product liability defense, and personal injury litigation. He also had considerable trial experience in automotive product liability litigation. In such cases, he successfully defended Honda Motor Co., Ltd., Toyota Motor Corporation, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, New Holland North America, Inc., Suzuki Motor Corporation, and NSK, Ltd. 

David was a dedicated mentor at Keller Rohrback and found gratification in watching those he worked closely with elevate to become senior counsel and partners at the firm. His clients, legal adversaries, and colleagues recognized David for his zealous representation, integrity, dedication to the law, and forthright nature. David will be remembered for his smile, wit, love of good food, and friendships. We will continue to celebrate David’s life, his kindness, and his successes. All will miss him. 

David enjoyed being on or near the water, bike riding, fly fishing, the Seahawks and Mariners, a wide variety of music, discovering good food, and especially spending time with his daughter, Ava.

David is survived by his daughter, Ava Russell; siblings, Renee (Mike) Swanson, Cheri Russell, Stacey Olsen, and Wade (Kara) Russell; former wife, Janelle; and numerous nieces and nephews.

The Russell Family will hold a celebration of David’s life on Sunday, December 4, 2002, from 3-5 pm at the Alki Beach Boathouse. All are welcome to attend. 

Read David’s obituary here.