Geoff (Geoffrey Charles) Russell

Geoffrey (Geoff) Charles Russell passed away peacefully at the age of 76, on January 14, 2020 at the Comox Valley Hospice after a short and sudden illness.  Geoff was born on January 26, 1943 in Hull, England, son of Charlie (John Charles) and Betty (Pashby) Russell.  On July 23, 1966, Geoff married Prue (Prudence Wright), in Hull, England.  On August 18, 1966 Geoff and Prue emigrated from England to Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada where they lived for the next 35 years. Geoff was a high-school teacher in Regina until his retirement in 1995.  During this time, his passion for teaching woodwork, computer science made life long impressions on a multitude of students.  Geoff was involved in the outdoor education program, taking students on many canoe and hiking trips over the years.

In 2001, Geoff and Prue moved to Comox, BC.  In Comox he embraced the outdoors, enjoying kayaking, golfing, flyfishing, and hiking along with a continued passion for woodworking.  He remained an avid cook and gardener.  During these years, Geoff and Prue travelled extensively, visiting many friends and family around the globe.  They made many close friends in the Comox Valley and were visited frequently by old friends from near and far.  Geoff was actively involved with numerous groups and volunteer organizations, including the Comox Valley Paddlers Club, Comox Valley Flyfishers Club, the Filberg Festival, and served on the board of the local chapter of the ‘Saskatchewan Mafia’.  Geoff made an impression on all he met with his enthusiasm, sense of humour and generous spirit.

Geoff is survived by his wife Prue, sons Ian (wife Terry and son Lachlan), Red Lake, ON;  Mark (wife Jackie and daughters Jillian and Lauren), Saskatoon, SK;  brother Ken (wife Val and daughters Micki and Anna, and their families) in Bridlington, England;  and Lucy the cat.  Many thanks to the staff of the North Island Hospital Comox Valley and the Comox Valley Hospice who, in particular, provided so much comfort to Geoff and Prue and family in the last week of his life.  

In lieu of flowers, donations in Geoff’s name can be made to the Comox Valley Hospice Society (www.ComoxHospice.com). 

A Celebration of Life will take place at a later date.