MOORHEAD — It was back in March that Russ Boyle died by suicide at his lake home in Otter Tail County. Anybody who worked or coached with Boyle couldn't say enough good about him.
"He was a huge role model in my life," said his daughter Mandy Boyle.
He did seem to have it all. Success in business, a loving family and friends galore. He was excited to see his youngest, his only son, get ready for his senior football season at Shanley High School this fall.
But Boyle was fighting a private battle with depression.
"He didn't want people to know," said his wife, Betsy Boyle. "We learned later he had texted his secretary, 'I don't feel well. I'm not coming in.' That was not like him."
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He drove to his lake home — the place he loved so much — and died by suicide.
"He did struggle, there was a lot people did not see," Betsy Boyle said.
Now there is an effort to urge others to reach out and get mental health issues out in the open where they belong. The Russ Boyle Memorial Golf Tournament at Village Green in Moorhead on Thursday, Aug. 26, will raise money for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
"No family wants to go through this, and it is a part of life we are going through, but if you need the help, get the help, because it is what is best for you and your family," said Russ Boyle's son, Brady Boyle.
The Boyle family hopes to help prevent other families from going through the pain they have.
"He had everything he could ever ask for, but who knew mentally, it just wasn't there for him," Many Boyle said.
Anyone interested in more information about the tournament, or to donate can find more information here .
If you or someone you know is in a crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741.
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