Obituary of Robert Douglas Russell

The death of Robert “Bob” Douglas Russell of Rothesay, husband of Betty L. (Leonard) Russell, occurred on Sunday, December 17, 2006 at the Saint John Regional Hospital. Born in Montreal, PQ, he was the son of the late Frederick Willis and Amelia Maude (Dykeman) Russell of Saint John and Jemseg. Bob grew up in Montreal and spent summers at Martinon Beach with his two brothers, John and David. He played in the softball league in Grand Bay and local communities. He attended Strathecona Academy (Outremont High School), graduated from McGill University in Physical Education in 1951 and served in the Air Force University Service Squadron. He married Betty Louise Leonard of Saint John in 1951. Bob and Betty lived in Quebec where Bob had his career in the Montreal area, first in the Boy’s Club and later in public education. He taught math in Chomedy High School and eventually became the Supervisor of Adult Education for the Laval School Board, North of Montreal. He directed Camp Louis, the summer camp in the Laurentians for the Boy’s Clubs and participated in many activities connected with his career. He and Betty had two sons, Fred (deceased in 1998) and Peter who presently lives in Richmond, BC. An avid bridge player and appreciator of fine arts, he enjoyed the theatre and many other cultural events. He played hockey at McGill and continued to follow sports on TV, especially hockey. He was a loyal sports fan. Bob was a Christian, a believer who drew strength from his faith and activities at St. James the Less Anglican Church. He was a forgiving and loving husband and father. He had a great repartee with his brothers, John and Dave and they enjoyed many holidays and trips away as a family. He is survived by Betty, his wife of 55 years on December 27, his son Peter and his wife Debbie, his brother, John, grandchildren Pamela Baldwin and Trevor Russell of Calgary, his sisters-in-law, Connie (Russell) McCauley of Quispamsis and Caroline (Leonard) Camolli of Toronto, ON as well as several nieces and nephews. Resting at St. James the Less Church, 1760 Rothesay Road, Rothesay, NB, with visiting on Wednesday 2-4 and 7-9 PM. Funeral service will be held at St. James the Less Anglican Church on Thursday, December 21, 2006 at 11:00 AM. Interment in Fernhill Cemetery. Remembrances to St. James the Less Anglican Church Building Fund or the charity of the donors’ choice would be appreciated. Arrangements under the direction of Brenan’s Select Community Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John (634-7424).