Russell Robert Jefferson

Russell passed away Dec 22, 2025, peacefully at home surrounded by his family after a short battle with cancer. Russell was predeceased by his loving wife Marilyn in 2023, parents Bob and Mabel, sisters Lorraine Evans and Audrey Berry, and brother-in-laws Wayne Sawyer, Donald Johnson, and Brian Forbes.

Russell will be remembered by daughters Carolyn Jefferson and Sharlene (Gary) Check; beloved grandchildren Kaila (Cody), Kelsey (Josh), Brandon (Taylor), Andrew (Hannah) and his great-granddaughters, the "apples of his eyes" - Hannah, Sydney, and Maddison; brother-in-laws Don Evans, Terry Berry, Barry (Marianne) Johnson; sister-in-laws Linda Sawyer, Lorraine Forbes, Denise Johnson; two aunts, many nieces, nephews, cousins and a few good long-time friends.

Russell came to Port Alberni in 1956. He worked several different jobs in the forestry industry and many years monkey-wrenching at Rayner & Bracht. He married the love of his life, Marilyn, on April 18, 1964 and soon after they became a family of four and made many great memories hunting, fishing, boating, snowmobiling and camping. He built their forever home where he and Marilyn had the privilege of raising their kids and welcoming their greatest joys - the grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Russ was a hard worker and a devoted father. During their working years, he and Marilyn restored and operated a commercial fishing boat and started up a trucking business, which later grew to include excavation.

In his retirement, Russ spent his days going fishing on his boat, tinkering in his shop and enjoyed doing odd jobs to help his family and close friends.

His family would like to thank Dr. Lambiotte, Dr. M. Marsay, Dr. Woodley, Haley G, and the Palliative and Home Care staff for their support over the years.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the reception hall at Yates Funeral Home, 4470 Gertrude St., Port Alberni on Friday January 16, 2026 at 11:00 AM.