Francis Russell (Fran/Russ) Forsythe, 87, of Dedham, Massachusetts, passed away, Tuesday, December 22, 2015 after a brief illness.

Russ was born December 18, 1928 in North Quincy, Massachusetts to George and Phoebe (Buckley) Forsythe.  He graduated from Quincy High School in 1946, served as an MP in the Navy for 4 years and graduated from Boston University in 1960 with a degree in Oceanography and Marine Sciences.

Russell worked at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution as a researcher and oceanographer early in his career, and spent 6 months working with Jacques Cousteau.  He found his gift for sharing his knowledge translated well and starting teaching part time at Northeastern and Suffolk Universities.  He taught Marine and Earth Sciences at Brookline High School for over 30 years and left a legacy to his generations of students.  A legacy of passion for the subject, his ability to relate to the kids and enjoy them, and his gift to have fun while learning.

He was a proud member of VFW #5731 and American Legion #112 in Abington, MA and a supporter of all the veterans and their sacrifices throughout the years.

He loved reading, science, cooking, (yard) sailing, meeting and making new friends, and an overall genuine enjoyment of life, family and friends.

Russ is survived by his wife Midge of 24 years, son Russell Forsythe of Abington, MA, daughter Kathleen Fuller and her husband Scott of Derry, NH, grandsons Christian and Ryan Fuller, stepson Michael Rollins of Tampa, FL, his beloved sister Phoebe Alice Isales of Puerto Rico, and many loving nieces, nephews and extended family.  Russ was a loving father, brother, husband, grandfather and friend to all.

A private celebration of life event for family and friends will be held Sunday, January 17th from 12:00-5:00 pm at his Dedham home.  For service details call Russ at 617-435-0653.  Those wishing to sign Russell's guestbook may do so at www.never-gone.com . Memorial donations can be made to the National Education for Assistance Dog Services (NEADS) PO Box 1100 Princeton, MA 01541.  www.neads.org