September 22, 1937 - December 20, 2024
It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of a great man, Russell (Russ) John Murrell on December 20, 2024 at age 87. Russ was a beloved family man, husband, friend and neighbour - a father figure to many. Over the years, his giving and generous spirit helped many people.
Born September 22, 1937 in Vancouver, BC to parents Joan and John Murrell, his family eventually settled in Chilliwack, BC where he met his first wife, Kay Morrow, in high school. Russ loved aeronautics and joined the 147 Squadron Air Cadets at age 17. He was awarded his wings from the Royal Canadian Air Force in 1958.
A skilled fighter pilot, Russ flew with many squadrons across Canada and overseas. He was with the 416 Tactical Fighter Squadron when stationed in Chatham, NB, where he flew his favorite aircraft, the CF-101 Voodoo. In 1960, Russ and his teammate received the Vincent Trophy, awarded to Canada's top aerial marksmen. He ended his flying career with the 408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron in Edmonton, AB. Russ made lifelong friends from his time in the Air Force.
After Air Force life, Russ served for 15 years as Camp Director at Wilderness Camp, an off-the-grid summer escape on Kootenay Lake run by the Northwest Wilderness Society of the Unitarian Church. He loved the outdoors so Wilderness was not just a job. It was a culmination of his skills and interests. He spent his days designing and building elaborate shelters, biffies, campsites and swimming structures plus operating the camp boat, always piloted with the same care and attention to detail he did with his aircrafts.
In 1981, Russ met Joyce Harries at Wilderness. They married on the shore of Kootenay Lake in 1993. For many years, they traveled across Canada, the US and beyond, their trailer often in tow. Camping at Cultus Lake was a highlight for their families who spent many summers with them. In 1995, they moved to Cloverdale to the home that Russ's parents built in 1974. Their home was a place of solace. If you needed help, Russ was there for you. His selfless nature, coupled with a cheeky stubbornness, meant thanking him for his service was difficult to accomplish (dark chocolate often did the trick).
Russ loved humorous greeting cards, scratch tickets, candied ginger, eating whipping cream straight from the can, cats, bird watching, political cartoons, a BBQ roast lamb dinner and music from Eartha Kitt. An avid reader, Russ was never far from his latest novel or today's copy of the Vancouver Sun.
Russ is survived by Joyce; three daughters Chris (Bill), Heidi (Bud), and Robyn; grandchildren Kaitlyn, Jaycee (René), Russell, and Madeleine (Wyatt); brother Michael (Dianne); three stepdaughters Lisa, Ginny, and Lori (Glen); step grandchildren Dianne, Natalie, and Marshall; and extended family. He was predeceased by his brother Robin in 1998, parents Joan in 1991 and John in 1995, and step grandchild Dennis in 2024.
A private celebration of life will be held in the spring. If you wish to share memories with the family or have questions, email rosenburgrpf@gmail.com. In support of Joyce who is living with Alzheimer's, please consider donations to the Alzheimer's Society of BC.
"Per ardua ad astra" - Through adversity to the stars