Peter Russell

Peter Russell

Peter Russell Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers from Feb. 8 to Feb. 9, 2007.
RUSSELL _ Dr. Peter 1949 - 2007 It is with deepest sadness we announce the passing of Dr. Peter Frederich Russell. Pete was born in Edmonton on May 27, 1949 and died peacefully in his sleep on February 6, 2007 at the young age of 57 years. He is remembered with great love and affection by his wife and best friend Joanne; his beloved daughters, Jesse, Michelle, Tara and Patty; his mother Stella Russell; sister Isabel Gill (Coleman); brother Nigel Russell and wife Vicki (Leduc); sister Jill Amstutz and husband Emil (Switzerland); sister and brother-in-law, Cathy and Doug Springer (Tennessee); sister-in-law Laurie Burland; father-in-law Bob Burland; and Barbara Burland. He was also loved and admired by his nieces and nephews, Robert and Christy Springer, Bridget Kosempel and Nigel Hamacher, Melissa and Micaela Brown, Shannon Jordan and Shelah Russell, and dog Charly Russell. He is predeceased by his father Dr. William F. Russell and his mother-in-law Lucille Burland. Peter was raised and educated in the Crowsnest Pass and was Valedictorian of his graduation class in 1967. He financed his university education by working in the coal mines and on the pipelines. He attended the University of Alberta where he was a member of Zeta Psi fraternity and graduated with a BSc and MD in 1973. He worked for four years as an emergency physician at the Edmonton General Hospital. Pete then moved to Calgary where he completed his Internal Medicine program and pursued his passion in Cardiology, graduating from the University of Calgary's first Cardiology program. He held his practice at the Associate Clinic and worked out of the Foothills and Rockyview hospitals. He was a member of the American Board of Internal Medicine and The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada-Specialist Certificate in Internal Medicine and Cardiology. He was very dedicated to his profession and was greatly appreciated by his colleagues and patients. Pete married Joanne in 1981 and last summer they celebrated their Twenty-Fifth Wedding Anniversary. Together they raised their family and enjoyed many days of golf and skiing. With their four children they spent every summer at their cabin in Whitefish, Montana. Pete's passions were reading, golfing on and off the course, and watching the beautiful sunsets and stars from his new home in Bearspaw (his cabin in Canmore). Pete loved the simple things in life and was a pillar of strength to many. He will be truly missed and always remembered. A celebration of Pete's life will be shared at Parkdale United Church (2919 - 8 Avenue N.W.) on Saturday, February 10, 2007 at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Jan Craig officiating. Expressions of sympathy may be forwarded through www.commemorativeservices.ca . If friends so desire, in lieu of flowers, memorial tributes can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Alberta (No. 200, 119 - 14 Street N.W., Calgary, T2N 1Z6. Telephone 403-264-5549). Arrangements in care of COMMEMORATIVE SERVICES FUNERAL DIRECTORS. Telephone: 265-1199. Calgary Family Owned and Operated www.commemorativeservices.ca

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September 7, 2007

Diana/Helen Walker/Ball posted to the memorial.

April 9, 2007

Ian Elliott posted to the memorial.

March 8, 2007

Marianne Mundy posted to the memorial.

66 Entries

Diana/Helen Walker/Ball

September 7, 2007

Dear Joanne, Mindy only learned recently of Peter's death when making an appointment with a doctor in the building in which Peter used to be, in fact, the same office. I'm sure she will be contacting you soon. It is so ironic that our husband -father Jim passed away just 4 days after his most favorite doctor. Our thoughts our with you and your family. We know how dissicult it is.
Diana

Ian Elliott

April 9, 2007

I only found out today that that quiet man with a twinkle in his eye was not going to be around to help me through, or extending my time. After reading the entries here, it simply confirmed my instincts that he was a special man, that will be missed.

Marianne Mundy

March 8, 2007

Dear Joanne, I have just learned of your sad loss. I wish you and your daughters love and strength in the days to come. You will be in my thoughts.

Shirra Turner

March 8, 2007

I just heard today of Dr. Russell's passing. He has been my cardiologist since 1999. He was a very quiet man, but I trusted in him completely. When I was having my heart surgery in the Foothills, I found out how truly respected Dr. Russell was. I was very proud to have him as my cardiologist and will miss him. My deepest condolences to the family. Please know Dr. Russell made an powerful impact on anybody he met. So sorry for your loss.

Gerald Mueller

March 2, 2007

I just learned today of Dr. Russel's passing and I wanted to send my heartfelt condolences to his family. I did not know Dr. Russell for a long time but he was my cardiologist and made a great impact on my life. I saw him as a man of few words but what he had to say meant so much, he was a very caring and understanding human being and gentle soul.

Annette and Roger McIntosh

February 27, 2007

Joanne and Family

Our thougths and prayers are with you during your time of grief.

Brenda Clampitt

February 26, 2007

Dear Joanne and girls,
I was very saddened to hear of the passing of your husband and the girls' father. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. With sympathy, Brenda Clampitt

Russ Jensen

February 21, 2007

My sincere sympathy in your loss. I spent many a summer morning chasing the little white egg with Pete. He was a wonderful mand and will be missed by all who was in contact with him.

Sue

February 18, 2007

I'm your Quail relative Joanne, and I just thought I'd let you know I'm thinking about you and the girls. I was very sad to hear of Peter's untimely passing. Your family was very helpful to us when my father was ill many year ago.

Beth Bishop

February 17, 2007

I know two of Dr. Russell's patients, both of whom expressed to me many times what a wonderful man he was and how safe they felt in his hands. In fact, I was present when one of them was called by Dr. Russell at home early one morning and it was very evident to me that this man went above and beyond the call of duty in his expression of concern for his patient. True healers are few and far between and I believe Dr. Russell was one of them. His passing is a terrible loss to his patients and the entire medical community, as well as to his friends and family. Please accept my condolences.

Sissel Bray

February 16, 2007

Dear Joanne and family,
My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you at the loss of your husband, father, and friend. Hopefully in time your feeling of loss will be lessened by all the many happy memories you have in your hearts.

Fern Preece

February 16, 2007

Dear Russell Family,
I heard of Dr. Russell's passing on CBC this morning and wanted to say how sorry I was to hear this. Dr. Russell attended my father when he first entered Foothills in Jan/03. Because of Dr. Russell's care (and my Dad's stubborness) he was given 2 1/2 extra years. For that I will always be greatful to your husband and father. Your family will be in my prayers and may God bless and keep you all safe during this journey of sorrow and sweet memories. Take care. Fern Preece and family - Calgary

G. Leadbetter

February 16, 2007

I was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Dr. Russell. I express my sincere condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues. He was there when I had my first cardiac event when I was 33 years of age. I’m now 51 and I owe a significant amount of my longevity and enjoyment of life to his advice and wisdom. He and I agreed part of my ability to control my episodes was do to a proper diet, controlling stress and always trying to maintain a minimum of 8 hours of sleep per night.. We disagreed about my dangerous sporting events;”Why do you want to do so many dangerous sports! Have you considered something like golf!” However, the key element was his confidence and ability to make you feel mentally and emotionally healthy. Dr. Russell – Thank you!

Lorraine Mabon

February 15, 2007

Dear Russell Family,
I was so saddened to hear of Dr. Russell's death. As an Emergency Physician at the Foothills Hospital I often had the privilege of working with Dr. Russell. He was so dedicated to his patients. Those fortunate enough to have him as their cardiologist truly appreciated his care. Peter often didn't say too much but what he said meant a lot! His professionalism, wisdom, kindness and integrity will be missed. I am so sorry for your loss. Please accept my deepest sympathy.

Richard Secord

February 15, 2007

Dear Russell Family,
Dr.Russell was my doctor. He truly was a fine man who took such wonderful care of me. He will be missed and he will be remembered often and always by many. I feel honored and blessed to have had him as my physician and shall forever be grateful. God bless you, you are in our thoughts and prayers,
RD Secord and family

Irene Keeler

February 14, 2007

Dear Joanne and family,
I am so sorry for the loss of your dear husband and father. Although I never met Pete, I know from these many tributes that he was a loving and kind man. May your memories give you strength in the days ahead. My heartfelt condolences.

patty hearn

February 14, 2007

Dear Joanne and girls,
Sincerest sympathy to all of you....only time and love will ease your sadness. My condolences. Thoughts, prayers and love are with you all.
Joanne.....huge hug.
Love Patty
(hearn/gramlich)

diane hamel

February 13, 2007

To the Russell family,
Dr. Russell was not only a wonderful person to work with, but also a wonderful caregiver. His wisdom, compassion and kindness was ever present. He was always there to see his patients no matter where they were in the hospital. I can remember him being there first thing in the morning after they had bypass surgery to check on them, and he always came by emergency to see what was going on with his patients. He also cared for my mother and greatly impacted her life with his excellent care. He will be greatly missed by all, and our prayers are with you and your family.

Arlene Northey

February 13, 2007

My dearest Joanne and family,

My deepest sympathy with the passing of your dear friend, husband and father. May your fond memories of time spent together guide you and give you strength through the days ahead. My prayers are with you.

Vittorina Sciore

February 12, 2007

Dear Joanne and the girls, I am so sorry to hear about your loss of DR Peter. We will pray for you that you will be strong. He was my heart doctor and we respect him very much.
Vittorina Sciore

Brian Chinery

February 12, 2007

Although you don't know me, I'm proud to say I was a patient of your husband's. He was a terrific source of strenth to me in helping me face my issues and he also made me laugh at my worries. Along with everyone, I'm greatly saddened by his loss. I wish I could give you back some of his strength but all I can give are these words and my heartfelt condolences.

Bob Holinski

February 11, 2007

I was shocked and saddened to learn of Pete's passing. I was very fortunate to have enjoyed his company during many early morning rounds of golf and I'll miss his company and cheerful wit. Have a word with the “golf Gods” for us and rest in peace Pete.

Sheryl Williams

February 10, 2007

I am saddened by news of Pete's death. A finer coworker would be difficult to find. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Joanne and family. May God be with you.

Cathy Deane

February 10, 2007

Russell Family,
I am deeply saddened with the loss of Dr. Russell. I worked with him for 9 years on the CICU. He was a wonderful, down to earth caring person. He always had time to ask me about my kids and I know he was very proud of his girls. Sometimes there are no perfect words to express our feelings only thoughtful silences.

Patti, Ian and Jessie Strachan

February 10, 2007

Dear Joanne, Jesse, Michelle, Tara and Patty,
We would like to express our deepest sympathy to you and your family. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Colleen (Gough) Wright

February 10, 2007

Joanne,
Mom has just informed me of your loss as I have just returned from
Florida. Being a childhood friend from Wildwood, I remember you as a
caring, upbeat, and strong person. These qualities will help you
through the difficult days that lay ahead. Mom (Joan Gough) also joins
me in expressing our deepest sympathies to you and your family.

Terry Aschacher

February 10, 2007

Please accept my deepest sympathies.

Sincerely, Dorothy Bateman & family

February 10, 2007

Dearest Mrs.Russell, family & friends,
I would like you to know what a wonderful gift Dr. Russell was and will always be in our lives.
He has kept our mother alive for the last 30+ years with his incredible expertise, compassion & true genuine concern.
He always made us feel safe & secure, even when many times situations looked dismal and frightful.
We also loved his quiet sense of humour, that always got our mom, Violet and us to pay attention and relax. (no small feat).
So please take a little bit of comfort knowing that he will always be in our hearts, and you in our prayers.

Hans Berkhout

February 9, 2007

Very sorry to hear of Dr Russell's death. On many occasions he offered me practical advice, by phone or in writng, related to my patients. I wish you strength, and best memories.
Hans Berkhout.

John Hamm

February 9, 2007

It was a shock to read that Dr. Russell had left us. Being a patient of his for many years he will be missed. I will miss our periodic visits and the updates about his family. A kind and gentle man.
He will be missed by many.

Betty Armstrong

February 9, 2007

Joanne-We are very sorry to hear of Peter's passing.We extend our sincere sympathy to you and the family. Betty & Barry

Ted & Ann Bowers

February 9, 2007

Dear Joanne,Jesse,Michelle,Patty & Tara
We were so shocked to hear that Pete had died.
We will miss Pete dearly. Thanks Jo for calling and letting us know during a very difficult time for you.
Pepper steaks will never be the same again.
Our sincere sympathy to all of you.
God bless you all.

Ted & Ann, Kevin & Rebecca, Kelly & Denis

Elaine Zameruk

February 9, 2007

Dear Joanne,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and all your family. I have so many fond memories of you and Peter all the way back to our days together in ICU and NU92.
Elaine Zameruk

Liz and David Berry

February 9, 2007

Our deepest condolences at the loss of your beloved husband and father. Our thought and prayers are with you. With heartfelt sympathies Liz and David Berry

Jean & Wayne Agar

February 9, 2007

Dear Mrs. Russell and family, I am so very sorry for your loss of a wonderful and kind husband, father and Doctor. My husband and I are both patients of Dr. Russell and will miss his gentleness and real caring. God bless you.

julie prest

February 9, 2007

Joanne and girls,
Our thoughts are with you.
Julie Prest for F.E. Osborne Junior High School Staff and students.

Dr. Jan, Peter and Marika McCaffrey

February 9, 2007

The Russell Family,
This is sad news in our family, and we offer our sympathy to you. I could only call him Dr. Russell in my second year of residency when I had the good fortune to experience his mentorship in the ICU. Years later, he looked after my father in and out of hospital, and was about to see my mother. Quietly wise, he had a terrific way with patients, and was a superb teacher. Gratefully,

Rod McFadyen

February 9, 2007

I am very sad at the passing of Dr. Russell. On March 4, 1999 he saved my life. As a patient of his since that date I could not have expected any more from any physician. God bless him and my sympathy to the family.

Campbell Scherger

February 9, 2007

Please accept my deepest sympathies.

Sandeep Deol

February 8, 2007

I would like to extend my sympathy to Dr. Russell's family. He was a very dedicated doctor, good teacher and nice human being. I will always miss him

Kathy McGrath

February 8, 2007

Honoured and respected by Rockyview Hospital staff and colleagues. A loss to be felt by many.
Dr. John and Kathryn McGrath

Glenn & Maureen Roberts

February 8, 2007

Joanne, girls & Charly,
We are very sad to hear of the passing of your Husband,Father & friend. We are here for you if you need anything at all. May you be comforted by the love of all in these difficult days ahead.
Your neighbours,
Glenn & Maureen Roberts
#96 Hamilton Drive

Terry and Linda Topak

February 8, 2007

Dear Joanne and family,and Isabel. We all have lost a good friend, and a great Cardiologist. I was able to know Peter as both, and he will be truly missed. Our thoughts are with you at this time.

Anna Violette

February 8, 2007

Dear Mrs. Russell and family. I'm very sorry to hear about the passing of Dr. Russell, my condolences go out to you and your family. I have never met him, but working for Dr. Mitha over the years we referred our cardiology patients to him regularly. My deepest sympathy and God Bless.

James Reid

February 8, 2007

Dr Russell was my cardiologist I found great comfort in his knowledge
and advice he gave me, will miss him. Rest in peace Peter.

Rob and Janine Stevens

February 8, 2007

Dear Joanne,Jesse,Michelle,Tara and Patty,
We were so shocked to hear that Peter had died. It makes us realize that life can never be taken for granted.
Our thoughts are with you and we know that your strong family ties and support of many friends will help you through this very difficult time. Sincerely,

Helen Bilou (nee Smith)

February 8, 2007

I would just like to extend my sincere sympathy to all of Peter's family and would like them to know that my thoughts and prayers are with them during this very sad time.

Linda Shilmar

February 8, 2007

Joanne and family
My deepest condolences at the loss of your dear husband and father. I had the opportunity to work with Dr Russell for the last 27 years and will miss him very much.He was a good and caring man, you must all be very proud of him.

cate Graham

February 8, 2007

Our hearts are with you at this time. So sorry to hear. Fondest thoughts and wishes and if there is anything we can do please call. Sean, Ayla, Cate, Liam & Isis Graham

Marlene Herndier

February 8, 2007

Joanne and family We are very saddened by the passing of Dr Russell. We knew your family better Joanne but Dr Russell took care of my father when he was very ill. And because of you Joanne he looked after me as well. He was well respected in the medical field as you all know, and the medical field has lost one very great Cardioligst. He will be missed by everyone whos life he touched. Marlene and Garry Herndier

Ken & Bonnie Seitz

February 8, 2007

Joanne & girls,
Please accept our sincere sympahty in your loss of Peter. Our thoughts are with you in this dificult time.

Donna,Graham,Andrew & Amy Hargreaves

February 8, 2007

Joanne, Patty, Tara, Jesse and Michelle,
We just want you to know that we are thinking about you in this
difficult time. You must be so proud of the man Pete was
and the man he will continue to be in your memories and dreams. Cherish those memories. We are so sorry for your loss. Take care

Kathy Sissons

February 8, 2007

So very sorry to hear of Dr. Russell's passing. He was a honourable member of our Foothills team and will be missed.I loved his dry sense of humour and quiet concern for all.
I worked with him personally many years ago on Unit 102 and will always remember him fondly.
My prayers are with you Joanne and family at this very difficult time.

Pat & Wib Lamb

February 8, 2007

Joanne:

The Lamb Family extends our deepest sympathies to you, Jesse, Michelle, Tara and Patty.

Pat & Wib Lamb

Margaret McGrath

February 8, 2007

Dear Jesse, Michelle, Patty and Tara, I'm so sorry to hear about your dad. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.

Love Margaret McGrath

Nizar Bawa

February 8, 2007

Doctor Russell was may cardiologist.May the departed soul rest in eternal peace.

Brian Haniford

February 8, 2007

To Peters Family and Friends;

We have lost a friend, and we will always remeber him.

Always enjoyed his joy of friends and family.

Happy cavorting, Peter.

Randy and Irene Langille

February 8, 2007

Joanne and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time. The 'bandit' will be missed by so many. He was such a quiet and reserved guy but if you knew him, you know he had a 'little' wild side to him. Many fond memories.
God bless you all,

Roz/Chris Gillis/Thompson

February 8, 2007

Pete was one of those truly kind, down to earth, decent people who always had a kind word for everyone. We have fond memories of working and playing with him. He would have been a great grandfather! Hugs to Joanne.

Lois Gatcha

February 8, 2007

The Russell Family
My sincere sympathy to all of you. My thoughts and prayers are also with you. Dr. Russell was my Cardiolgist and was a very Special man and friend.

Rod, Andrea and Lindsay Lawrence

February 8, 2007

Joanne,Jesse, Michelle,Tara, Patty and Charlie. Words cannot begin to express our Heartfelt Sympathy. We pray God will surround your family with love, comfort and strength during this difficult time.

Duane Poulton

February 8, 2007

I would like to express my sincere sympathies to Joanne and family. Peter was not only my cardiac doctor but also was a good friend and golfing associate. I wish I had the opportunity to express my thanks for all the medical help and guidance he had provided me over the years. He will be truly missed by me and all those that knew and associated with him.

Susie Greco

February 8, 2007

My heartfelt sympathies go out to all of you My memories of Pete are of a kind and gentle soul, who had a glint of spice in his eyes that made you know there was so much under the surface. I am so lucky to have had him touch my life even if it was so briefly. Many people live in this world twice as long and don't nearly have the impact that he did in his short time My thoughts are with you all

Joyce Hardman

February 8, 2007

I am deeply saddend by the passing of Dr. Russell, my condolences and prayers to his wife and family. May
he rest in peace.

Sharon and Brian Spence

February 8, 2007

Joanne and family, Words are not enough. Our families have been intertwined over the years and for this we are thankful and blessed. A pleasure to work with Pete and he will be sorely missed. May you find inner strength in the days to come. You are all in our prayers and thoughts. Much Love and Peace to you. Dr. Brian and Sharon(Hampton) Spence

Terry Peressini

February 8, 2007

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

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September 7, 2007

Diana/Helen Walker/Ball posted to the memorial.

April 9, 2007

Ian Elliott posted to the memorial.

March 8, 2007

Marianne Mundy posted to the memorial.