Who is Russel Susskit's father from Dogsong and what is their importance?

Russel Susskit's father is never mentioned by name. Russel's father is nondescript and his age is never revealed in the narrative. What is known about Russel's father is that his wife abandoned him for a white trapper and that he is a heavy smoker. Russel's father also believes in Jesus. This is different from saying that Russel's father is a Christian, as the novel gives no indication that Mr. Susskit actually practices the religion. Nevertheless, Russel's father is a man of some faith. His belief in Jesus is what enables Russel's father to stop drinking. When it comes to his son, however, Mr. Susskit is at a complete loss. He does not know how to help Russel and he admits this to his son. Russel's father is disconnected from the Old Ways and as a result he has become disconnected from himself. Russel's father is powerless. To him, the old Ways are a distant memory, but he does not stand in Russel's way when the time comes for Russel to learn about his Eskimo origins. In a way, Russel Susskit's father represents the individual who does not know where he comes from and therefore cannot say where he is headed in life. Russel's father seems to settle for things the way they are. It is no wonder that Russel hungers for something more than his father can provide. Mr. Susskit represents the New Way of living.