Walter Russell

1926-2024

Walter Russell; Went to be with his Lord on August 16, 2024 at the age of 98.

Predeceased by his loving wife Brunetta (Bernie) earlier this year. Loving father to Patricia Dawe (Gordon) and John (Marianne). Beloved Poppy to Lesley, David, Catherine, Alannah, and Stephen. Loving Great Grandfather to Charlotte, Rosie, William, Oliver, Evelyn, Liam, Owen (predeceased), Adalyn and Fletcher.

Born in Bay Roberts, Newfoundland to the late William and Alfreda (nee Snow), he was the 6th of 11 children. Walter is survived by his brother Ross and predeceased by his siblings Stephen, Albert, Graham, Lorraine, Howard, Norman, Eric, Douglas and David. He was also Uncle Walter to numerous nieces and nephews.

During World War II, Walter was employed as a kitchen helper at the US Army base located in St John’s, where he learned and became an excellent cook. In 1946, at the age of 20, Walter moved to Toronto to seek a better life. In Toronto, he met Bernie in 1947. They were married in 1951 and enjoyed over 72 years of marriage before her passing in April 2024.

Walter spent his working life as a skilled and experienced upholsterer. He worked at companies such as the Gold Medal Furniture Company and Cooper Brothers Furniture, where he did custom upholstery for the Fine Furniture Department of Eaton’s department store. The quality of his work was recognized by the furniture industry and he won awards for his work. He also upholstered many pieces of furniture for family and friends.

Walter was an avid gardener and loved to go to antique shows and flea markets with his son John. He enjoyed talking to people and made friends wherever he went. He loved travelling with Bernie and with his children and grandchildren to such places as California, Florida, the Maritimes, Europe, Alberta and British Columbia.

Above all, Walter was a family man. His greatest joy was spending time with his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was very proud of each and every one of them.

Visitation for Walter will be held Thursday August 29, 2024 from 10:00 am – 11:00 am at Northridge Community Church of The Salvation Army, 15338 Leslie Street in Aurora. Funeral Service will follow at 11:00 am. Committal prayers will be held on Thursday August 29, 2024 at 2:30 pm at Sanctuary Park Cemetery, 1570 Royal York Road, Etobicoke, ON.

Service will be livestreamed. Please use this link to connect: https://youtube.com/live/5oKKPvl0WoQ?feature=share

Donations in Walter’s memory may be made to Northridge Community Church of the Salvation Army or a charity of your choice.