Russel Orelle Prouse

Russel Orelle Prouse was born on February 18,1943, in Kelvington, Saskatchewan. He passed away peacefully on February 10, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was the tenth child of Oliver & Ruth (Erickson) Prouse in a family of 12 children - 10 sisters and 1 brother. Russel's early childhood was spent on the family farm where hard work was never ending - milking cows, cleaning barns, picking stones, and helping with harvesting. He attended Hill Peak School for his elementary grades. Later after a lengthy walk, he would catch the bus to attend Kelvington High School. Russel decided at the age of 15 years, he had enough education and went to Regina to work. He stayed at his sister's place (Dorothy & Bob) and enjoyed every moment there with their children. Bob and Dorothy were like his second set of parents. He had always been mechanically inclined and was able to get an apprenticeship as an automotive mechanic. He then started work in Regina and Kelvington. His friend and later wife Lorraine had moved to Prince George so in 1965 Russel ventured west too.

He was able to get employment immediately. Russel started at Parker - Pacific and in September 1966 went to work at Inland Kenworth Hart Highway. He took the job seriously and became a Heavy Duty Mechanic for Inland Kenworth until he retired at age of 65 in 2008 after 42 years. He was able to fix a Kenworth truck from the front to the back even over the phone.

On December 29, 1966, he married Lorraine Caillier and after that two sons were born - Whitney and Kevin. Russel enjoyed all activities of school and sports with the boys. But his greatest love was boats, boat motors, fishing and camping with his family. Countless hours were spent on the water - just 1 more minute, a fish might bite!! When his grandchildren were old enough to replace his sons, they spent time with Grandpa camping, fishing and travelling.

In his retirement Russel spent countless hours at the Hart Pioneer Centre. Whether it was repairing or fixing, playing pool, socializing and eating, he enjoyed every moment. The “Coffee Gang” at McDonalds is where every issue, local or worldwide were debated and solved, making it important to attend daily.

Russel is survived by his wife Lorraine, sons Whitney, Kevin (Melissa) and grandchildren Emily & Cameron.

Sisters - Violet, Ruthie, Dorothy, Edna, Isabelle (Morris), Nadine (Dale); Sister-in- laws- Connie, Anita (Ernie), Dorothy, June and many nieces & nephews, great nieces & nephews and great, great nieces & nephews.

Russel was predeceased by his parents Oliver & Ruth, his brother Oliver and his sisters - Beatrice, Gladys, Myrtle and Connie.

No service by request. In lieu of flowers, donations to PG Hospice Palliative Care Society, 3089 Clapperton St; PG BC V2L 5N4 would be greatly appreciated.