Sisters couple revel in their active, outdoor lifestyle

Nancy and Russell Williams relax at home -- briefly. photo by Becky Coffield In love with the outdoors, Nancy and Russell Williams' paths crossed, literally, for the first time at Glimmer Glass State Park in Cooperstown, New York, 35 years ago.

Both were enjoying a late fall solitary hike when they met. They have been hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, and square dancing together ever since.

Originally hailing from upstate New York, they found the town of Sisters and the outdoor recreational opportunities here irresistible when they first visited the area in 1988. Almost immediately after that visit, Russell retired from his job in San Bernardino, California, where he was a technical sales representative for highway construction materials.

Two days after they moved into their home in Sage Meadow it began to snow and they fell in love once again with the winter sports they'd enjoyed in their youth. The two are avid skiers and snowshoers, and regularly cap off a long day on the mountain with a yoga class.

One of 11 children, Russell served as a B-24 navigator in World War II and made some 31 runs over Germany.

He and his five fellow crew members survived two crashes. They still keep in touch to this day.

Russell's siblings range in age from 91 to 74. He credits their longevity to plenty of hard work as youngsters growing up on a farm during the Depression. The son of a Welsh milkman and a German lady's maid who migrated to the United States, Russell began working at the age of 10.

After the Depression and war, Russell attended Syracuse University where he obtained a degree in Business Administration. Nancy attended State University of New York where she became a dental health teacher.

The Williams are truly grateful for their opportunity to retire to Sisters. Besides hiking six to 10 miles several times a week and being active members of Swinging Mountaineers, a square dance club that Russell has been secretary of for some time, they also commute to Springfield to dance with the Cast-A-Shadow club.

Somehow, in their busy recreational schedule, they find the time to volunteer at the Habitat for Humanity Thrift Store. Russell was the first secretary of Habitat when it was formed at the Lutheran Church.

He also ran the bicycle shop at Black Butte Ranch for a few years and worked as a volunteer tutoring math and reading at Sisters Elementary School.

"Sisters is an easy place to meet people," Nancy said. "There are so many recreational and cultural activities in the area that we enjoy. We appreciate what we have."

Their advice for remaining spry and athletic?

"You simply must maintain your physical health in order to keep activities available. Keep interested in things. Appreciate your community and give back to the community."

As a small herd of deer fed in their backyard, Russell commented on the habits and character of each one. Some are named.

"We walk in the National Forest daily and we hike twice a week, but oh, the snow! We can't wait for the snow!" Nancy said.