Obituary Overview
Forever In Our Hearts
Peacefully, after a determined struggle, Russell passed away on Friday, August 24th at the age of 91. He was a devoted, loving husband to Jocelyn (Maley) for more than 59 years, proud, caring father to his daughters, Myra (Alan) Moreira, Sandra (Bruce) Fiell and Linda (Al) Rempel, wise grandfather to Clare Ripley, Trevor, Erin and Robyn Fiell and Eloise Rempel. He leaves behind extended family in Calgary and Toronto as well as many friends and colleagues. His two brothers, John and Ronald, predeceased him, as did his nephew Michael.
Russell was born in Coleman, AB to Roscoe Powell and Edna (Armstrong) Powell, both well-known, respected educators. He grew up in Calgary, in the Hillhurst, Scarboro and Killarney neighbourhoods. The brick house his father built in Killarney during the Great Depression still stands today. Located close to Shaganappi Golf Course, the proximity and his natural athletic talent ignited a lifelong passion for the game.
Russell earned his university tuition working with Alberta Power’s surveying crews, riding horseback into the furthest reaches of the province’s backcountry. He graduated from the University of Alberta in 1951 with his Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil Engineering, where he met Jocelyn. They began their courtship following graduation, marrying in 1958 and spending many happy years together, primarily in Calgary but also in Edmonton and Toronto.
Russ’s precise, analytical mind, command of mathematics, relentless focus and love for building was applied to a wide variety of oil and gas challenges during his lengthy career with Imperial Oil Limited. One of his major contributions involved the work he and his engineering team pioneered at the first heavy oil projects at Cold Lake, AB.
In addition to managing a busy family life and professional career, Russ was an accomplished golfer and a long-standing member of Silver Springs Golf and Country Club. He served on the executive and as President of the Alberta Golf Association and organized many Willingdon Cup Team trips as Alberta’s junior golfers travelled to competitions across Canada and the U.S.
Airplanes were another abiding fascination. Russ meticulously crafted model airplanes and flew them with other enthusiasts in clubs in Calgary and Edmonton.
Russell’s family would like to extend deep appreciation for the kindness and supportive care he received from his many caregivers at the Rockyview Hospital, Staywell Manor, the Beverly Centre and Carewest Colonel Belcher.
At Russell’s wish, a private memorial service will be held. In lieu of flowers, friends may wish to make a donation in Russ’s memory to the Alberta Golf Association Foundation. www.albertagolf.org.
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Russell George Powell 2018..
Décès pour la Ville: Calgary, Province: Alberta
