Peacefully and comfortably surrounded by family, Russell passed away on Sunday, August 27, 2023 at the West Haldimand General Hospital in his 81 st year. Beloved husband of Joyce (nee Atkinson) of nearly 57 years. Proud and loving father of his four children Darryl Smith (Gail), Cheryl Phibbs (Bob), Brad Smith (Debra) and Brenda Smith (Paul). Cherished grandfather of Matthew, Stephen, Graham, Evan, Derek, Nicholas and Rachel. Survived by his sisters Ann Coulton (Wayne) and Mae Whaley (David), brother-in-law to Janet Weatherston (and the late Bill), Murray Shepherd (and the late Joan), Ron Atkinson (Louise), uncle, cousin and friend to many. Predeceased by his parents Ariel and Bruce Whaley, birth father Lee Ashton Smith. Russell was raised on the family dairy farm near Caledonia. He helped work the family farm, participated in 4-H and Junior Farmers. Russell attended Caledonia High School and graduated from the University of Guelph. He was well known for Saturday night olde tyme square dance calling and Joyce’s dance partner. Russell and Joyce married in 1966 and began a partnership on their dairy farm in Caledonia, becoming farmer of the year in 1998. After retiring from farming they eventually moved into town in 2002. Special thanks to the PSWs, VONs and nurses. Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, September 20, 2023 at 2:00pm in Grace United Church, Caledonia. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Russell to the West Haldimand General Hospital Foundation or the Grace United Church Caledonia would be appreciated by the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to MILLER FUNERAL CHAPEL, Caledonia (www.millerfuneralchapel.ca)
