It is with an extremely heavy heart that we announce the passing of our longtime colleague, esteemed arborist, loving Uncle and dear friend, Russell Neil Peters, on Friday, June 12, 2026.

Russell was born in Houston, Texas on September 17, 1959, to Donald and Lilian Peters. The youngest of three boys, Russell grew up playing baseball and basketball and enjoying being outside and with nature whenever possible. That passion carried him to college where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Ornamental Horticulture from Texas Tech University in 1982, and a Master of Science degree in Plant Pathology from Texas A&M University in 1985.

He became an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborist in 1992 and joined Arborilogical Services, Inc. in 1996. He came to the company with the benefit of two academic degrees and years of practical experience. He recently went on to become an ISA Board Certified Master Arborist (BCMA), Oak Wilt Qualified (OWQ), as well as ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualified (TRAQ). Over the years, Russell continued to expand his credentials, maintaining his ability to serve as an expert witness and provide in-depth appraisals of tree damage and value. He consistently sought out new research and information on topics critical to tree and forest health.

Inspired by the loss of majestic oaks in and around his parents’ house in the Texas Hill Country, Russell studied under Dr. David Appel, Professor of Microbiology and Plant Pathology, Texas A&M University, and completed his master's thesis on Oak Wilt. Throughout his career, he has volunteered as an educator, teaching both industry professionals and the public on a wide range of tree-related topics, particularly oak wilt. Russell was recognized as one of the foremost authorities on this devastating disease in North Texas.

Outside of work, Russell continued to pursue his love of sports and played softball in the Dallas/Fort Worth area then transitioned to a love of playing golf through the years.

Russell generously shared his knowledge and experience through his service to the arboriculture profession and numerous tree-related organizations. He served multiple terms as a board member and twice as president of the Texas Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture (ISAT). He also served as an officer and as a board member of the Trinity Blacklands Urban Forestry Council, and the Central Texas Arborist Association.

A few of Russell’s professional awards and accomplishments include:

2005 Arborist of the Year provided by Texas Chapter International Society Arboriculture, Texas A&M Forest Service, Texas Urban Forestry Council. The highest honor provided by ISAT for an arborist is to be named the "Arborist of the Year" for many years of volunteer and financial support as well as dedication to our industry.

2002 Trinity Blacklands Urban Forestry Council Award Plaque for his service as the President of Trinity Blacklands Urban Forestry Council.

2001 Trinity Blacklands Urban Forestry Council Certificate of Appreciation for his service as the Vice President of the Trinity Blacklands Urban Forestry Council.

2000 Trinity Blacklands Urban Forestry Council Certificate of Appreciation for his service as the Director of the Trinity Blacklands Urban Forestry Council.

1999 American Society of Consulting Arborists Certificate of Appreciation for his service as a member of their document review committee.

1998 Trinity Blacklands Urban Forestry Council Certificate of Appreciation for his service as a Board of Director of the Trinity Blacklands Urban Forestry Council.

1995 Leadership Award provided by the Texas Chapter International Society of Arborists (ISAT) for his service as the President of ISAT in recognition of his excellent leadership and service to the professional arborists of Texas.

Russell was more than just a valued colleague; he was an integral part of advancing arboriculture knowledge throughout the Dallas/Fort Worth region. He enjoyed serving as a trusted resource and connection among other arborists regarding pathology and tree health. Colleagues frequently turned to him for guidance and expertise, which he provided without hesitation.

Russell touched countless lives through his work, mentorship, and friendship. He was deeply respected by our staff, clients, and fellow arborists throughout the industry. His expertise, dedication, and passion for trees helped save a forest of ailing trees over the course of his career.

Those fortunate enough to know Russell personally knew to expect at least a little sarcasm in each conversation- the kind that might not register immediately but catches up with you at the right moment later. He was able to turn a conversation from serious to light-hearted with a well-timed comment, and those who appreciate dry, tongue-in-cheek humor knew they could count on Russell to deliver.

Although he faced significant medical concerns over the years, Russell remained steadfast in his determination to continue the work he loved. His dedication and commitment to serving his clients and profession were truly admirable.

Russell was well respected and deservedly so. He was one of the finest arborists in the industry and his contributions will benefit both the profession and the trees he cared for long into the future.

He will be truly missed by all those fortunate enough to have known him. We are grateful for the lasting impact he has had on our lives and our profession.  

Russell’s family is considering a celebration of life memorial service at a future date. Additional details will be shared when they become available.

We would like to thank Russell's nephews for providing the first photograph of Russell at the top of this page as well as the text regarding his personal life. The first photograph below was his professional profile picture, the next two photographs of Russell were taken at the annual conference of the Texas Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture, where he was honored as Arborist of the Year. The final photograph was taken at our company Christmas party in 2005.