Russell Leonard Gero

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Russell Leonard Gero at the age of 90 on Friday, March 8, 2024. Russell passed peacefully at the Sagewood in Lower Sackville after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Born on November 20, 1933, in Thorburn N.S, he spent his childhood in the area before moving to New Glasgow at the age of 14. Russell was known for this love of soap operas, the Rockford Files, a fine scotch, and of course, rabbits. Russ was recognized for his sharp wit and sarcastic sense of humor, along with his penchant for humming and playfully altering the lyrics of songs.

Russell is survived by his estranged wife, Dianne and their son, Benjamin, as well as his sons, Blain, Richard, Darrell (Micheline), and Dennis, his daughters Natalie and Barbara Ann, and his non-marital children, Deborah Perkins, and Courtney Desmond. He is also survived by his sisters Patricia Cooke and Emily Gero. Russell leaves behind numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews who will continue to cherish his memory. Russell is additionally survived by his mother-in-law, Mildred Babin, with whom he shared a uniquely cherished bond.

Sadly, Russell was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph, and Margaret (Elms) Gero, his first wife Joan (Mickey) Gero, their infant son Blair, and his brother John Day and sisters, Mildred in infancy, Mary, Clara Chapman, and Cora States.

Russell dedicated over 33 years of his life to VIA Rail, where he worked as a service attendant. Before that, he briefly worked for the Town of New Glasgow. Russell retired in January of 1996, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and commitment.

In his passing, Russell generously donated to the Maritime Brain Tissue Bank in hopes of supporting research and helping future individuals affected by Alzheimer's.

Dianne and Ben would like to express their gratitude to all the staff at the Sagewood. Your dedication and compassion have not gone unnoticed, and we are truly grateful for the exceptional level of care you extended to Russell in the last six months of his life.

Dearest Russell, I hope you’ve found the rabbits.