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Chandra RUSSELL Obituary
Chandra (Shandra) Russell, beloved mother of Annika, passed away Wednesday, August 9, 2017, after a brief illness. In addition to Annika, she leaves to mourn, her sister Kerry; brother Dana; her aunt Iris and uncle Doug; and many cousins, friends and business colleagues. She was predeceased by her parents John (Bud) Russell and Elva Russell. In 2005, Shandra adopted Annika – who instantly became the love of her life. Shandra passed on to Annika a strong foundation of caring, commitment and love. She was actively involved in Annika's sports adventures and was so proud of her accomplishments in ringette and soccer. Shandra enjoyed being active and spending time in the outdoors. She and Annika loved their visits with Hollywood - their horse. Shandra was a valued member of the leadership team since joining Gibsons Energy in August 2011 and will be dearly missed. She will be remembered for her thoughtful leadership and her ability to connect with others at all levels within the company. A Celebration of Shandra's Life will be held in the Chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home (1605-100 Street SE, Calgary) on Saturday, August 19, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, Annika is requesting that donations be made in her mother's memory to the Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society (AARCS), 5060 -74 Ave. SE, Calgary, AB, T2C 3C9 (www.aarcs.ca). A private Graveside Service will be held. To express condolences, please visit: www.mountainviewmemorial.ca.
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30 Entries
Gary Kroon
November 12, 2018
In 1979 Chandra and I travelled to China for some most interesting times . We managed to meet and greet the coming China . All the best Chandra and see you on the next rafting trip .
August 27, 2017
Dear Annika: Words fail me. I have enjoyed getting to know you and your mum over the years and watching you grow up. I am so sorry that you have lost your mum. Chris Horgan (Hasty's owner at the stables).
Carol Stock
August 19, 2017
Shocked and saddened to hear of Chandra's sudden passing. I can only assume that God had need of a special angel. We hand many enjoyable riding times at Windy Ridge with Chandra and Hollywood. I remember how excited she was to have Annika arrive in her life. A more devoted caring mother I can't imagine. Annika you were blessed to have Chandra as your mother for even a brief time in your life. I was at the service today which was heart felt with so many people who loved Chandra. Embrace the memories.
Allan Cathcart
August 19, 2017
I was fortunate to re-connect with Chandra at our recent Hewitt family reunion. I admired her warmth and openness. The love and pride she felt for Annika was evident. It is clear from the tributes given here that she was also highly respected held in high esteem by her colleagues and friends.
To Annika - whether it be weeks, months, or years before our paths cross again, always know that you have a warm and welcoming extended family.
I extend my heartfelt condolences on the passing of your wonderful mom.
Sincerely,
Allan
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Suzanne Aucoin
August 19, 2017
It's Saturday 11am (12 in Calgary) and I've just seen the most recent posting about the Memorial Service today at 2pm. Chandra knows that if I could twitch my nose, I'd be there and that I can still be there in spirit. She has been an amazing friend - we've laughed and cried, travelled and cooked and hung out since the late 70's. Even while I was living in Montreal and now in Vancouver, we always stayed connected...finding ways to meet up or having long phone chats. Loving, Kind, Compassionate, Funny, Passionate, Loyal, Trustworthy, Generous, Fair...that's how I knew her.
Annika...she dreamed of you from the time I met her - she always wanted a child and you were her chosen shining joy. She loved you with such a full and giving heart, I am so sorry you'll only get to experience her in spirit as you grow up...she was so looking forward to your journey together. I'll keep in touch with you.
My deepest condolences to all the family and my deepest gratitude to Annika's new family who've stepped up to this most honourable position.
I greatly miss my friend!
Robin Newbold
August 19, 2017
Aloha Annika, from Robin, your tidepool buddy on Maui.
I'm deeply saddened by the sudden passing of your precious mother and great loss to you. You were the light of her life; she loved you deeply. You brought such happiness and a sense of fullness to her life that wouldn't have been possible without you.
Something I learned as my parents passed is that they remained with me in spirit. For example, I felt my mother with me, especially when I leaned back on my SCUBA tank while sitting underwater; together we would watch the fishes swim by. We weren't able to do that when she was alive; only her passing made it possible. And the same with my dad; I continue to feel his presence and guidance; we converse, not as we did before, but in a new and wonderful way. I believe you, too, will continue to feel your mother with you for the rest of your life.
Along with so many others who's lives your mother touched, I will miss your mom greatly. We met before you were born, as we were walking the beach in Maui. We remained close friends from that day forward. We had a special connection, as she was such a wonderful person.
I also want to extend my deepest condolences to your mom's sister, brother, aunt, uncle, cousins and friends. I'm especially grateful to Diane for caring for you, as your mother would have wanted.
You are such a beautiful, accomplished and wise young lady. I'm hoping we can stay in touch by email and winter visits to Maui.
With much love,
Robin
Laurie Maslak
August 19, 2017
We were stunned and saddened to hear of Shandra's passing. She was a wonderful mentor, colleague and friend to many. She was able to impact so many people's life through her work and her connections to the community. Rest in peace Shandra knowing your spirit continues to shine through others. Annika, you have had a wonderful example to follow and all the love and nourishment of a loving parent. Cherish it always.
Michele
August 18, 2017
My sincere condolences to family and loved ones.
Shandra was a special person and will be missed dearly.
It was a pleasure to have her has a leader.
Much love and respect
JULIA DAWSON
August 18, 2017
Sending our deepest condolences to Annika and all of the Russell family from us at Calgary Child's Play. We knew Shandra as a devoted parent and mother, as we saw Annika growing up from Kindergarten year upwards. our thoughts are with you at this difficult time, Julia, Dee and staff.
Divina Paulo
August 18, 2017
Shandra's presence and kindness will be missed. My deepest sympathies to Anika and her family...
Maggie Gilmour
August 18, 2017
Deepest sympathy and condolences to the family. I worked with Shandra at TransAlta a number of years ago. I remember Shandra as a lovely lady and a great co-worker.
Jane Lewis-Warneford
August 18, 2017
My deepest condolences to your family and especially your daughter during this difficult time. It has been a while but will always remember your smile and laughter when i worked with you. Taken too soon - rest in peace Shandra. Jane
Ephimios George Sgouromitis
August 17, 2017
My sincerest condolences and prayers for you all. I will miss Shandra and that our work was always secondary to the personal connections we all shared as people and team members in the moments of time we had together.
Rod MacDonald
August 17, 2017
It is with a very sad and heavy heart I learned of Chandra's passing! The precious gifts of youth...one was growing up as a neighbor and becoming close friends with the Russell family. Chandra, Dana,Kerry, plus Mr. And Mrs.Russell were a big part of my daily life for many years. I remember wonderful fun times, games, going to movies, watching TV, even making pizzas, at the Russell home. In high school, Chandra had the patience of helping me with math. Many nights a week for years we would walk around Glenmore Park always chatting about the world. My warmest thoughts are with you Anika, Dana, Kerry, and relatives of Chandra.
Nancy Chawrun
August 17, 2017
I would like to extend my sincere condolences to Anika and Shandra's family and friends. Shandra was such a beautiful person inside and out. She was my friend, confident and Wednesday walking buddy. Forever in my heart and missing you. Love Nancy
Rhonda Francis
August 17, 2017
Words cannot express my sense of loss for this untimely passing. My deepest sympathies to Anika. I know she was loved greatly by Chandra. She was very proud of Anika and I know they were great pals. My thoughts and prayers are with you both.
John Percic
August 17, 2017
We are deeply saddened by Shandra's untimely passing. We will always be profoundly grateful to have known Shandra. To Annika our most sincere condolences. Stay strong and know that you were everything to your mother. She was very proud of you and she will always be there looking after you from above. May all the good memories bring you comfort. Sincerely, John Percic & Diane Dalkin
JANSONS FAMILY
August 16, 2017
Dearest Annika we are thinking of you and sending you our love. It was so evident that your mom loved you with all her heart everyday. It is important that you know that as you grow into the beautiful young woman we know you will be. Your mom was so proud of you and your accomplishments. Hold that close in your heart always.
Tami Hennessy
August 16, 2017
We will all miss you so much here at Gibsons. It is hard to believe you are no longer with us, but we will be strong and move forward, as that is what you would want and expect. I am so happy I was able to know you - it was an honor. Love and prayers to your family during this difficult time.
Janice Paisley
August 16, 2017
I would like to extend my sincere condolences to Shandra's family, friends, and all who will miss her, especially her daughter Anika. When she spoke of you Anika, it was always with love in her voice and eyes, you were her light. She was a open person and always had time and a friendly ear to listen. I will miss her. Blessings and sympathy to everyone who mourns her. Sincerely, Janice
August 16, 2017
Shandra was a very kind and caring person, she enjoyed people and always took the time share a story. She will be missed at Gibson Energy.
My deepest condolences to her family and friends.
August 16, 2017
Chandra and I have been friends since grade one. We have shared many socials plus lots of marginal golf games. We will miss you, your warmth, laugh and friendship. You left us way to soon. We will help watch over Anika. Love Lou
August 16, 2017
I will miss Chandra. She was a very kind person and treated everyone with respect. My thoughts are with Anika and her family.
Launa Rauser
August 16, 2017
Always had time to chat and was such a warm person. Will be sadly missed.
Christie Hall
August 15, 2017
Shandra was such a great person and she really listened to you. I am going to miss her tremendously, and her passing has left a huge hole that can't be filled.
Sending much love to her daughter and the rest of her family.
xoxo
Robb Grundy
August 15, 2017
I will miss seeing you and your wonderful spirit at the stable. condolences to all of Chandra's family.
Kit Bright
August 15, 2017
I personally am going to miss her terribly - she hired me and was the best mentor, champion. She was an amazing person and had a positive impact on all who met her.
August 14, 2017
In condolence of Chandra Russell
She was a really kind caring person
Kristin aquino
Gail Foreman
August 12, 2017
I was so happy to see Chandra again at the Hewitt family reunion in July and to meet Anika. We had exchanged contact information and had plans to get together. I am deeply saddened to hear of her untimely passing. My deepest condolences to all her immediate family.
Gail Foreman (Goodfellow)
Myrna Hewitt
August 12, 2017
It was wonderful to see Chandra at the Hewitt family reunion in July. Our thoughts are with you Anika and with Chandra's family and friends. I have lovely memories from our youth of summer evenings at farm playing lively games with Russel and Cathcart cousins. We had such fun together.
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1605 - 100 Street S.E., Calgary, AB T1X 0L4
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