RUSSELL ROSS MILLER

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

RUSSELL ROSS MILLER (MIRECKI) Peacefully, with family at his side, Russell passed away early Thursday, July 27, 2017 at Grace Hospital. He will be lovingly remembered by Lydia, his wife of 68 years, his daughter Debra Philippon (Stanley) and his grandson Randy Philippon (Edyta). He also leaves behind his sisters-in-law, Minnie and Elaine, as well as his many nieces and nephews. Russell was predeceased by his parents, Jacob and Pauline Mirecki, his brothers, Bill, Boris and Eddie, and his sisters, Ann and Ollie. Russell was born in St. Andrews, Manitoba, on September 28, 1920. He grew up on the family farm, where he developed a lifelong love of working the land. In the Second World War, he served with the Canadian forces in Jamaica as a driver and courier. Upon his return home, at a homecoming party, he met Lydia Popowich, whom he married on October 29, 1948. His daughter Debra was born five years to the day, October 29, 1953. During the 1950s, Russell began his career as a real estate agent, and continued in his chosen field until gradually winding down in the 1980s. During this time, he remained true to his country roots, helping his brother-in-law during the harvest season, meticulously maintaining his own garden, and caring for a parcel of land he received from his father. He had a great appreciation of antique farm equipment. In 1982, his grandson Randy was born. Randy became the apple of his eye, and the two of them were very close. Randy's well being was always foremost on his mind. Later in life, he developed a love of travel, making many trips across the Atlantic, visiting England, Germany and Eastern Europe. He retained many happy memories of his travels with Lydia, and had many stories to relate. Russell's last few years were spent in the Luther Home, where he became a well loved member of the community, always ready to share his pickled herring with visitors. Last year, Lydia joined him in the Luther Home, and they were able to spend their days together. A special thank you to the staff at the Luther Home. They are all wonderfully caring and compassionate people. Also, a thank you to Dr. Milner and the nurses at the Grace Hospital for the care provided in his final days. As per his wishes, cremation has taken place, and a service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, August 3, 2017 at Glen Eden Funeral Home, 4477 Main Street, West St. Paul, MB. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Russell's memory to CancerCare Manitoba or a charity of choice. "The old man and the young boy walk hand in hand along the path of eternity, for they are not years apart as they seem, but are as one. The understanding between them is not spoken, for as one era ends another starts, and the old passes the knowledge of the past onto the young and new." Glen Eden Funeral Home & Cemetery 204-338-7111

Make a donation to

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 01, 2017