Russell Stevens: A local character

The island community of Majorca, and the world as a whole, lost a much loved and well known character last Sunday, in a tragic car accident close to Palma. Russell Stevens was travelling to the Circuito Mallorca for an important event in aid of children’s charities - an event he had supported and promoted with his usual high-octane enthusiasm. Sadly he was not to witness the fruits of his endeavours.
Born in Epsom, England, Russell’s passion for all things mechanical – be they cars, trains, aircraft or boats – began early. As a child he would sit between his mother and father as they drove along, pointing at every car on the road, instantly identifying the make and model - initially to the amusement, but often to the annoyance of his two sisters in the seats behind.
This passion would remain throughout his life, personally owning a number of special cars along the way, and finally taking a public and prominent role within the motoring and social community on Majorca, as he worked tirelessly to successfully build and develop Club Driving Mallorca with much admired success. Russell’s character was a strong and engaging one. He had vast knowledge of a variety of topics, and would readily engage in deep and often colourful debates on anything from the correct size of wheels for a 1965 Ferrari, to whether man really did land on the moon or not! He was a persuasive talker and a tenacious “doer”, enabling him to achieve so much and influence so many people.
But Russell was also a huge amount of fun. Never happier than when he was surrounded by people he loved and admired, laughing and joking in his mischievous and infectious way, often fuelled by wine and the atmosphere. He loved Majorca, his home for many years, and he touched the lives of many people, near and far. But above all else he cared. He cared about his friends and family, and he cared about his work.
He will be sorely missed.
Russell leaves behind his two sisters, Joanne and Claire and their families.
Tributes can be made to the two children’s charities supported by Russell – The JoyRon Foundation and ASPANOB.
You can find out more about Russell’s passion – Club Driving Mallorca – via the website at www.drivingmallorca.com, via Facebook or, for details and to find out how to make a donation, contact Nick Jones on +34 672 211 058 or via email to jonathan@drivingmallorca.com.