One Who Made a Difference

Blindness never stopped Russ Murawski from fighting for what he believed in. Neither did old age. Right up until his death last week at 77, he kept speaking out, writing letters and pressing public officials on behalf of his fellow mass transit users and senior citizens.

Ventura County is a better place because of his efforts. We will miss his passion, his persistence and his faith that problems can indeed be solved if people get involved.

One of his most appreciated--if not particularly glorious--accomplishments is the inclusion of public restrooms in the new $1.8-million bus transportation center proposed for Ventura’s Pacific View Mall. When Murawski learned in 1998 that the redesign of the mall would place the bus stop much farther from restrooms than before, he took action. Armed with a stopwatch and accompanied by a news reporter and photographer, he timed how long it took him to hike from the proposed stop. Ventura city officials say restrooms were added to the plan largely because of his efforts.

Born in Minnesota, Murawski lost his left eye in a childhood fishing accident. He moved to California in 1950 and owned a dental supply business until he lost the sight in his right eye to glaucoma about 30 years ago.

Blindness left him dependent on the bus and Dial-a-Ride systems, which he worked constantly to improve. When a number of task forces were organized in 1998 to address specific transportation needs throughout the county, Murawski was typically resolute: “They’re going to do something because we’re not going to let loose,” he told The Times.

Murawski served on many civic committees, including those dedicated to protecting the rights of fellow mobile home park residents. He also worked with senior nutrition programs, served on advisory councils on senior issues and worked with organizations for the blind.

The elected officials he lobbied remember his good humor and straight talk--and especially appreciate that he offered solutions rather than simply complaining.

We salute Russ Murawski as an inspiring example of what an active citizen should be.