1936 - 2024
It is with great sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Edward David Russell December 16, 2024 at the age of 88. He was the beloved husband of Frances Louise (nee Turner) Russell, his wife of 40 years, stepfather to Michael (Carolyn) Turner. Grandfather to Michael Jr. (Vanessa) and Marcie (Josh) and great grandfather to Brycen and Bria; loving father to Scott Russell, Alexis Rogers and grandfather of Tiffany and Conrad. He is predeceased by his parents Edward and Edith Russell and brother John Russell.
Born June 30, 1936 in Fonthill, Ontario he spent his young years working for his father's construction company learning the building trade. It is no wonder that a career in architecture would be his destiny.
In 1961 Edward graduated from Carnegie Mellon University with a Bachelor of Architecture and later received his Doctor of Philosophy from Cornell University in 1975.
His 60 year career as an architect in private practice began in 1964 when he received his license and became a Registered Architect with the Ontario Association of Architects. His career allowed him to travel to many countries to work on a variety of projects. He went on to establish practices in the state of Texas in 1982 as well as New York State in 1988. During his career he took on the challenge of designing a wide variety of projects. From schools to churches; military buildings to civic and financial institutions; hotels to sports complex's to name a few. However, it was his biggest battle that he was most famously known for, taking on the Disney Corporation and subsequently winning in a well-publicized case. His architectural legacy lives on in the many projects he was involved with in the Niagara Region.
His other interest was a passion for archeology and history. In the 1970's he was fortunate to participate in several archeological digs in Cyprus, Turkey, Israel and Tunisia excavating many Roman buildings, roads and ports an experience he always held close to his heart.
He also had a great appreciation for military history which led him to the Air Cadets as a young man and his dream of flying in WW II aircraft became a reality when he was able to purchase and display 4 aircraft of the era. He established an annual airshow where he would host many veterans and the general public always instilling the importance of never forgetting the ultimate sacrifice so many made for our freedom.
However Ed will be best remembered as the ever most gracious host of his beloved Summer BBQ's and famous annual Boxing Day Open House where he was always at his happiest entertaining a full house full of family and friends.
He will be deeply missed.
Our sincerely thanks and gratitude to Dr. Ansari, Dr. Khandelwal and the palliative care team that made it possible for Ed to stay in his home, and a very special thank you to Carolyn, Marcie, Michael and Kathy.
Friends and family will be received at the PELHAM FUNERAL HOME, 1292 Pelham Street, Fonthill on Sunday, December 22nd from 2 - 4:00 pm. The memorial service to honour Ed's life will be held at the funeral home on Monday, December 23rd beginning at 11:00 am with a reception to follow.
As an expression of sympathy donations can be made the Ronald McDonald House.
Condolences may be shared at www.pelhamfuneralhome.ca
