Obituary of Marlene Gwen Russell

It is with the most profound sadness that we announce the passing of Marlene Gwen Russell, after a brief battle with cancer, on January 11^th at the age of 81.

Marlene was the loving wife of more than 60 years to Ray, the best Mum (not Mom) to sons Brent (the cutest), Doug (the eldest), and daughter-in-law Heather. Marlene is also survived and cherished by her siblings Glenda (Ben), Fred (Jackie), Carl (Joanne), Debra (Karsten), and their families, as well as the entire Russell clan.

Marlene was born and raised in Carman, Manitoba, the eldest child of Charlie and Hazel. She met the love of her life in the Carman Hospital nursery. She was three days older than Ray, a fact she never tired of mentioning to him during all their years together.

Trained as a nurse, Marlene worked in Winnipeg and various places in Saskatchewan where Ray was posted with CIBC, settling down in Regina. Once she left nursing, she became an auto insurance underwriter at SGI (Saskatchewan Government Insurance), retiring in 1999. Away from work, Marlene loved to be social, to travel, and to cook for her family and friends. Given the amount of food she would prepare, the running joke in our house was that she must have been a prison chef in a former life.

She met life-long friends at St. James Anglican Church as well as through work, square dancing, and swimming. Marlene will always be remembered for her unfailing kindness, loving heart, quick wit, and quirky sense of humour. Even in the saddest times, Marlene could recognize – and enjoy – the silly and/or darkly humourous side of life. And, if you knew Marlene, you’re likely now nodding your head, knowing exactly what we’re talking about.

We are deeply grateful for the compassionate care provided to Marlene by her long-time family doctor, Stewart McMillan, and all the doctors, nurses, care aids, and staff at the Pasqua Hospital and Wascana Rehabilitation Centre. At a later date, a celebration of Marlene’s life will be held in her hometown of Carman, Manitoba, where she will be laid to rest.

In lieu of flowers, please remember Marlene by donating to a charity of your choice.

Or just find something silly to laugh about, every day. She would like that.