Passed away peacefully, at Glenwarren Lodge in Victoria, B.C. on December 25, 2009. Beloved husband of Isabelle for 66 years; father of Michael (Janice), Nancy (John), Stephen (Bernice), Jeffrey (Mary), Joel (Maria), Trish (Paul); grandfather and great grandfather of fifteen. Born in Hamilton, Ontario July 20, 1922, Russ graduated from McMaster University after returning from active service in the Second World War. After many years with the Canadian Manufacturers’ Association, Russ opened his own business providing outsourced management to a variety of trade associations in Toronto and then Ottawa. After retiring to Victoria in 1990, Russ happily tended to his garden, played the piano, took long walks along the ocean and relaxed in his library surrounded by his books. He always looked forward to visits from his large family and would share his passion for music, books and nature with all. In the last year, Alzheimer’s robbed him of many of his favourite pursuits but his eyes would still light up when he saw Isabelle, his children or his grandchildren. The family would like to thank the staff at Glenwarren Lodge for their compassion and care for Russ over the last seven months.
A memorial service will be held at St. Mary’s Church, 1701 Elgin Street in Oak Bay on Wednesday, December 30th at 3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada would be greatly appreciated.
44 Responses
Dear Isabelle,
We were very sorry to learn this sad news. Russ was a generous supporter and enthusiastic member of our club for many years and he will be greatly missed.
Our condolences to you and your family.
The Oak Bay Garden Club
Our Deepest Sympathy Steve and Family.
Simon & Francine.
Dear Joel and Maria:
Jim and I are sending to you and your family our deepest sympathies. I know from experience what it is like to lose a much loved family member. Our thoughts and our prayers are with you.
Claudette and Jim White
Our thoughts are with the family. Hoping your memories of the joyful and loving times with Russell carry you through these difficult times.
To Trish and all of your family.
We are so sorry to hear about the loss of your dad. I know he was very proud of all of you and particularly appreciative of having you and your family near.
Kathy Summers/John Picken
Jeff and Mary,
Sorry to learn of the loss of your father.
My condolences to you and your family.
Sean
Jeff, Mary and all the Neal family,
Doug and I send our sincere sympathies to the family. We know that losing a parent is never easy. Our hope is that passing time, caring friends and loving memories will help and comfort you through the coming days. Please know that you are in our thoughts.
Janice
Dear Jeff (and Mary),
We are so sorry to hear about the passing of your father. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Memories live forever!
John, Sarah, Heidi, and Earl Nephin
My Herart goes out to your Family Jeff! I am very sorry for your loss!
Rick Layden
To all the Neal family from Nancy, Len and Melanie, we wish to express our condolences at this time. Our thoughts are with you.