Obituary of Graham James Russell

It is with great sadness that the family of the late Graham James Russell announce his passing on February 11^th, 2025, at the age of 87 years. Graham was born on May 13, 1937, in William’s Harbour, Labrador where he lived most of his life with the love of his life, Patricia Russell, having celebrated their 66^th anniversary on March 18^th, 2024.

He leaves to mourn with loving memories his wife Patricia; sons: Scott Russell (Mina) and Graham Russell (Yvone); and daughters: Susie Strugnell (John), Ruth Burden (Eldred), Donna Strugnell, Dorcas Humphries (Bruce) and Darlene; 13 grandchildren, 17 Great Grandchildren and 2 Great Great Grandchildren. He also leaves to mourn his sister: Bella Saunders (Henry) and brothers: William Larkham (Nellie) and Paul Larkham (Martha); as well as a large circle of extended family and friends.

Graham was predeceased by his mother: Dorcas Larkham, step father: Charles Larkham; sisters: Mildred Campbell and Bernice Larkham; and brothers: Cyril Russell, Clifford Russell, Hayward Larkham, Carl Larkham and Harold Larkham.

Graham had many occupations though most of his work focused on the ocean, mostly a fisherman; first as part of the inshore fishery with his brother Cyril until the moratorium in 1992. Later he went back to the sea, this time as a shareman on a much larger vessel with Aubrey Russell.

Graham was a quiet, compassionate man and utilized his love for dog teams in assisting his uncle Leonard (Len) Russell transporting nurses and doctors along the coast reaching into smaller, less accessible communities to tend to their patients.

Dogs held a special place in his heart. They were his friends, companions and at times saviour. It was a way of life that he embraced and held close. Trixi, one of his lead dogs, earned such a place in his life that in his late 60”s he decided to get his first tattoo; an image of Trixi on his forearm.

His love for life didn’t go unnoticed as his reputation grew and many young mushers drew to him. Men such as Bill Russell, Dennis Burden and Hayward Larkham learned the craft of managing and caring for their dogs, earning Graham’s praise and respect along the way.

Graham loved to gather in his shed with family and friends swapping tales, weaving in an exaggeration or two to the delight of all. Laughter flowed from him throughout his days, bringing joy to old and young alike.

He will be sadly missed; the fond memories of how he graced this earth will become the stories and tales of a younger generation, bringing admiration, a laugh, and an occasional tear.

Friends and family may visit at the Calvary Pentecostal Tabernacle, Port Hope Simpson on Friday, February 14^th, 2025, between 10:00 – 12:00. The funeral service will follow at 2:00 pm.