The Canton Fire Department has reported the death of Firefighter William "Bill" Russell, who died on March 15, 2026.

Russell joined the department on April 4, 1974, and has served the Canton community as a firefighter and EMT for nearly 52 years. He has previously worked as a safety officer, county fire teacher, and part of the regional hazardous materials team. He was an EVOC instructor, the chief operator of the county's UCV-1 unit, and a board member at the George E. Briggs St. Lawrence County Fire Training Center. Department members noted Russell’s dedication to training, emergency response, and mentorship within the fire service.

Funeral arrangements are being handled by O’Leary Funeral Service. Members asked the community to keep the Russell family in their thoughts.