James Russell "Russ" Campbell

Sadly leaving us on Saturday, Dec. 28, 2024, a week short of his 94th birthday. Making us laugh until the very end, Russ was truly one of a kind. He was a consummate salesman who could charm anyone with his wit and kindness. Beloved husband for 63 years of Jacquie. Proud father of Murray (Janet) and David (Valerie). Adored Grumpy of Riley, Marlo, Jack, and Quynn. Predeceased by his brother Roy (Lisa) and sister-in-law Irvine (Jack) Dean. Fondly remembered by his cousin Randy, nieces Jane and Roxanne, extended family, and many friends.

Russ was born in Glasgow, Scotland at the home of his maternal grandparents and as a three month old sailed with his mother and brother to Belfast, Ireland to his paternal grandparents to be christened. He then journeyed across the Atlantic to Canada for the start of a rewarding life. He grew up in North Toronto and attended John Fisher Public School where in grade 8 played for the city hockey championship at Maple Leaf Gardens. He then attended Northern Vocational Secondary School before leaving in Grade 10 to begin work because he was no longer allowed to read the newspaper in class. His working career began at Willard Chocolates, Woolworths (where he had a stint living in Montreal), Cooks Stationary, R&R Sales, Norman Rogul Furs and WJ May & Sons, a manufacturing agency where one of the products was Hespler hockey sticks which he enjoyed because of his love of hockey.

In 1971, Russ partnered with Jack Ward to form Toy-Sport Agency which expanded his world of sports to the wonderful world of toys. After 23 great years he retired but never stopped his interest in the industry continuing to work for many years after with a few key clients. He enjoyed fishing and went on many trips across Canada with the 3F fishing group - a very close bunch of friends. In Aurora, he was a partner in the Aurora Tigers in the '70s. He was also a member of Aurora Highlands Golf Club from 1966 until its closure in the early '90s where he enjoyed many friends including the "Thieves". Russ was a man of his word, hard on the outside at times but a gentle giant on the inside always.

A heartfelt thanks to the doctors and nurses at Southlake Hospital, especially those in the CICU. We were also very grateful for the years of special care by the home care professionals, especially Cory and Lawal. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Southlake Health Foundation or a charity of your choice.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, January 26, from 2-5 pm (Tributes at 3pm) at The Aurora Armoury, 89 Mosley St, Aurora, ON.

2&2, we love you and we will miss you.