RUSSELL ANDREW REID

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RUSSELL ANDREW REID Russell Andrew Reid 86 years old, passed away on July 15 at Grace Hospital. Russell will be lovingly remembered by his family and friends. Russell is survived by his wife Elin (Einarsson) and his sons Wesley and Colin, grandchildren, Alyssa, Patricia, Wesley, Andrea, Erica, Carl, Elizabeth and Michael, daughters-in law Darlene, Mona and Gwen, brothers-in-law Harold, Rexie and David and sisters-in-law Lauga and Asta. Russell is predeceased by his siblings, Grant, Ken and Eileen and his son, Dean. Russell was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend to many. Russell, born in Alberta, was raised in Arborg, Manitoba. In the Second World War, Russell enlisted in the armed forces and became a pilot and an officer. He served bravely and honorably in the Royal Canadian Air Force and travelled throughout Canada and to London, England in this capacity. After the war, Russell became the Building Operations Manager for Winnipeg Enterprises (arena and stadium). In this capacity Russell often had to work exceptionally hard to prepare the arena and stadium for all the various events such as football games, hockey games, circuses and even rodeos. During that time Russell was a devoted sports fan and was able to get some sport celebrities to speak at charitable functions. After leaving the arena, Russell became Building Operations Manager at the Manitoba Centennial Centre where he worked until his retirement. Russell and Elin used their extraordinary energy and creativity to design and build a home in Balmoral, Manitoba. This setting was not only their retirement home but became known as the gathering place for many family re-unions and celebrations. Donations can be sent to the Parkinson's Society of Manitoba, 302 171 Donald Street, Winnipeg, R3C 1M4. A celebration of Russell's life will be held at the Unitarian Church in Arborg, Manitoba on August 2, 2008 at 1:00 p.m. Neil Bardal Inc. 949-2200 nbardal.mb.ca

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 19, 2008