Russell, Robert Murray – It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of our dear brother, Robert, at his Trout Lake fishing camp on May 6, 2020. Born in Halifax, he was a son of the late Earl and Catherine Russell.
A resident of Codroy Valley on the west coast of Newfoundland, he had been on a six month visit to Ship Harbour where he was able to enjoy time with friends and family, especially his Uncle Donnie Russell. After graduating from Prince Andrew High School in Dartmouth, Robert joined the RCAF as a Vehicle Technician in 1966. Following various postings across Canada and in Germany, he retired from the Air Force in 1976 as a Master Corporal. He then worked for many years as a heavy duty truck mechanic at Parts for Trucks in Burnside until he retired in 2004.
As a young boy, Robert would sit for hours with his grandfather, Gibson Russell, listening to his tales about hunting and fishing. As he got older he would hunt for deer and fish for trout with his father, Earl, who passed along many of his skills. An avid sportsman, Robert’s life revolved around hunting and fishing. He moved to Newfoundland in 2004 after the rivers in Nova Scotia had been closed to salmon fishing. There he could walk to the river to do what he loved best, fly-fishing for salmon. He eventually became a licensed guide for both salmon fishing and moose hunting. Many would agree that he was among the best when it came to casting a line using a fly that he had tied himself. He could instinctively read a salmon pool and he would generously share his knowledge with fellow sportsmen.
Robert is survived by his sister, Elaine McWha (Larry), DeBaies Cove; Cathy Towers (Stu), Enfield; brother, Carl, Fredericton; brother-in-law, Doug Smith, Moncton; niece, Krista; and nephews, Joshua, David, Jesse, Andrew. Robert will always be remembered as a kind person and sadly missed by all who knew him.
Cremation has taken place under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit. Family will hold a celebration of his life after the Covid-19 restrictions have been lifted and it is safe to gather. We would sincerely like to thank Bill Coolen of Ship Harbour for everything that he did for us on Wednesday, May 6th. Donations in Robert’s memory can be made to the Atlantic Salmon Federation.
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