Russ Adams 1965-2021

7.22.21

For the past 10 years, we at HEWITT were fortunate to call Russ Adams our colleague. As a senior associate in the architecture studio, he played an integral role in bringing many of our flagship projects to completion, including The Emerald, Dimension and The Mama Tower. But Russ was so much more than a co-worker – he was an incredible listener, a thoughtful mentor, and a consummate storyteller. We are all better, both professionally and personally, for having known Russ. His legacy lives on in the fabric of the city he helped shape, and in each of us. Following are some of our team’s favorite memories of Russ.

His humility, ability to have gratitude for everything, and genuine joy were infectious.

Russ was the most selfless and values-oriented teacher, friend, and co-worker I’ve ever had the pleasure to work with.

He always had a big smile on his face and a good story to tell.

Even when we went into remote work, Russ typed out the lengthiest, most detailed emails I have ever seen to explain Revit tasks to me—and when asked what he missed most about the office, he told me it was the ability to walk over to a younger staff member’s desk to discuss problems with them in person.

Russ’s love for his profession and family were always evident when we spoke and he was so proud of his completed projects, but even more proud of his daughter.

He was always interested in hearing about what adventures his co-workers were getting into and loved comparing notes, whether it was for a house renovation task or national park visit.

Russ was always generous with his architectural knowledge, helping me track down obscure code references or coming up with an elegant detail.

I have so many fond memories of Russ from gatherings around the office kitchen table during Friday Happy Hours. Russ was always so affable at those gatherings and loved telling stories about travel and backcountry skiing adventures.

He made me feel more confident in my first professional role, and consistently made my day by offering that huge Russ smile.

I loved working with the man and will truly miss his presence at HEWITT and in my life.