Passed away peacefully at Seaforth Community Hospital on Tuesday, January 23, 2024 of Exeter at the age of 90. Beloved husband of the late Lorna (Taylor) Russell. Cherished dad of Dave Russell and Kelly Gingerich, and Rob and Tara Russell. Proud “Big G” of Nicole (Alex), and Michelle (Josh). Dear brother and brother-in-law of Jim and Verla Russell. Fondly remembered by his nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents Earl and Thelma Russell, and sister-in-law and brother-in-law Shirley and Don Mousseau.
Bob owned and operated Russell Electric with his brother Jim for over 65 years, a family business taken over from their father. Many would remember Bob as the TV service man. Bob enjoyed many years performing for many people as the lead singer of the Main Street Jug Band. He was a dedicated member of the Exeter United Church, singing in the choir. You could find Bob cheering on his Detroit Red Wings and Detroit Tigers.
Visitation will be held at Haskett Funeral Home, 456 Main Street South, EXETER on Thursday from 6 – 8 PM, where Bob’s memorial service will be held on Friday, January 26th at 11 AM. Cremation has taken place and a private family interment will be held in the spring at the Exeter Cemetery.
Donations to Jessica’s House would be appreciated by the family.
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Jean Hodgert
Sending my condolences to Bob’s family. I well remember meeting Bob when he played with the Thames Road baseball team (with my husband). He was a good pitcher. Also visited with Bob at the Dining for Seniors as he would lead in singing. Good memories of Bob.
Thinking of you – Jean Hodgert
George and Sue (Insley)Wilson
Dave, Kelly, Rob, Tara, and families, Jim and Verla, heartfelt condolences. Bob was a friendly man. He liked his music. Cherish your precious memories. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Clare & Brenda (Parsons) Martene & Family
To the Russell Family . . .
Our sincerest condolences as you say good-bye & mourn the loss of an important man in your lives . . . Bob was a good man with a big heart, huge smile & a tremendous sense of humour. He was a one-of-a-kind caring, thoughtful, generous, knowledgeable family guy that touched so many lives with his friendship & many years of service with the church, community & area. May loving memories replace your tears with smiles of happy times together . . . may you find strength in each other now & in the difficult days ahead. Bob’s devoted love of all his family & those he held dear will forever live on in your hearts as precious memories & his legacy will live on in all of you . . .
Our thoughts & prayers to you all at this very heartbreaking time. 🙏🏻❤️
Sincerely, Clare & Brenda Martene & Family (Crediton, ON) ❤️
Howard and Yvonne Hendrick
Sincere condolences to Rob, Dave and family in the passing of Bob. He will be missed. Cherish all your wonderful memories.
Howard and Yvonne Hendrick
Glenn and Missy Pfaff
To the Russell family,
We were so sorry to hear about your Dad and Grandpa’s passing. Although we didn’t know him well, we knew of his impact on your family and how deep this loss will be felt. Thinking of you all.
Jerry and Alice MacLean
So sorry for the Russel Families loss, It always when we part ways with one we love!
Smile when you hear or think his name…it makes it just a little easier.Let Bob RIP…he lived a good life…now time to reunite with Lorna, Earl and Thelma…won’t that be a reunion!
Melanie Hardie
Dear Rob, Tara, Dave, Nicole & Michelle,
I can’t tell you how much I will miss Bob’s visits. He was kind, inquisitive & could always make me laugh. I am so happy that I had the chance to know him & be a part of his life.
Much love,
Melanie
Faye Skinner
To the entire Russell family:
My thoughts are with you at this sad time. Bob attended our dining program in Exeter and drove clients to appointments. He also took my sister and I to Toronto to catch a flight south. Bob was a great social butterfly. He had a larger than life personality and a laugh that filled the room. He will be missed.
Cherish your memories of him.
Wendy Stafford
Dave and Kelly, Rob and Tara and family,
My deepest sympathy to the Russell family on the loss of your Dad. Keep the memories close in the days, weeks and months ahead and know that Your Mom and Dad will be looking down with pride knowing they raised two kind and caring men.
Wendy and Scott Stafford (nee Boogemans)
Scott and Angie Heywood
Dave, Rob and families,
So sorry to hear of Bob’s passing. Our sincere condolences. Cherish the memories.
Gaylan, Evelyn and family
Dave and Kelly Nicole, Michell, Rob and Tara, Jim and Verla
Our condolences to the Russell family. Bob was one of the first to visit us and welcome us to the community when we moved to Exeter in 1971. In the last few years, it appeared as though he was waiting for us for us to check our mailbox, as he often came out to share some pleasant information, or merely pass the time of day. He was always so cheerful and pleasant. He will be missed.
Bob and Joyce McDonald
Dave, Rob and Tara, Jim and Verla and families,
Sending our deepest condolences to the entire Russell family. Cherish all the wonderful memories made with family and friends.
Bob and Joyce McDonald
Julia Martene
Our condolences to the Russell family
We are very saddened to hear of your loss. My own memories of Bob begin with monthly meetings(poker night) with my father, Jim and the boys, and regular Saturday visits to Russell Electric. Later, we appreciated Bob sharing his love of music with our son Devon. Wherever Bob went he shared his many talents and joy of living. May you be comforted at this time with the memories of a life well lived.
Earl and Julia Martene
Bill and Linda Farquhar
Thinking of all of you at this sad time. Bob was a real gentleman who loved to visit and tell stories. We will remember his booming laugh!
Bill and Linda Farquhar and family
Jones
Dave, Rob and family..
Please accept our condolences at his sad time for your family.
Your dad was a sweetheart and he raised two sweetheart men too.
Thinking of you all.
Hugs ..Karen and Todd
Brenda Hern
Rob and Tara and the Russell family – sending our sincere condolences for your loss – Brenda and Ivan Hern
Brad & Anne Mousseau
To all Bob’s loved ones, our heartfelt condolences in your loss of a father & grandfather, brother & uncle.
Rosemary Crosthwaite
Dave, Nicole, Michelle , Rob and Tara,
John and I are very sorry to read about your dad and grandpa. We always enjoyed being at a family gathering that he was at. He always brightened up a room. The last time I saw him, he was in Exeter hospital the same time my dad was and when he heard dad was there he came down the hall and visited him. He was always cheerful and thinking of others and had a joke or two. He was a good man.
Rosemary and John
Jane Groves
Bob’s Family and Jim. We send our sympathy in the passing of Bob. Through our TV and appliance business, we became business friends with Bob and Jim, meeting them through our buying group meetings. What a friendly chatty pair. Sincerely, Clayton and Jane Groves.
John and Mary Ann Harness
Sincere condolences to the Russell family.
Brenda Morgan
Dave, and Rob,, and your families,, I was so saddened to read about you dad. I didn’t know him well, but when ever I did have the pleasure of running into him, he always acted like he had known me forever. His laugh was so infectious,, and his personality was , I would like to say, one of a kind,, but I can’t say that, as both of his sons inherited the exact same qualities. I can only imagine the emptiness you are both experiencing now, now that you have lost your dad. You made him so proud,, he always just beamed when he spoke of you,, just like you both do when you speak of him. I know that you will continue to make him proud,, but then you had a heck of a good mentor your entire lives. Again, I am so sorry for your loss guys,, your dad is going to missed my so many, I’m sure. Hugs to you both.
Cy & Eleanor Blommaert
Dave Rob Jim & Verla and the Russell family
So sorry to hear your Dad / Grandpa / Brother has passed.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Cy & Eleanor
Jim & Marilyn Skinner
So sorry to hear of the loss of your Dad, thoughts and prayers to your family!
Joyce Black
Sending sympathy to Dave and Rob and family in the passing of your Dad/Grandfather. We worked for many years across from each other on the Main Street of Exeter and he always waived if we were out front at the same time. Take care of each other in the days ahead.
Cheryl Becker
Rob, Dave and families
My deepest condolences on the loss of your Dad and Grandpa. Thoughts and prayers to you and your family!
Andrea & Craig Alexander
~Dave, Rob & Tara~
Sincere Condolences on the passing of your Dad. He was always such a kind and jolly man to talk to. Cherish your wonderful memories and know his kindred spirit lives on in you.
~Andrea (Pearce) & Craig Alexander~
Laurel Maule (Shapton)
My sincerest condolences for your loss. Bob was a truly wonderful man with the biggest and kindest heart. I’ll never forget the many Euchre games we played together, our times singing in the church choir and playing together in band. My thoughts are with all of his family, he will be deeply missed.
All my love,
Laurel Maule (Shapton)
Jim Chapman
Dave, Rob and Families;
My deepest sympathy for your loss !! Papa BOB will be missed by many !!
I have warm memories of enjoying his music/singing and of the many road trips we
did together exchanging vehicles for HMP
Jason Van Haarlem
To the Russell family,
Condolences on the loss of your father. Cherish the memories.
Jason and Collette Van Haarlem
Jean Weber
Dear Dave and Rob – I am sorry to learn of your Dad’s passing. I grew up with both of your parents and related through my Dad’s first marriage. Please accept my sympathy.
Kari Hearn
To the entire Russell family. We send you all our deepest condolences at this time. May his presence in life fill you with fond memories and good times. RIP From the Hearn family
Pete and Gloria McFalls
Our sympathies to the Russell families . We enjoyed Bob when he was lawn bowling with us. Bob drove for the Wheels of Hope program and we were fortunate to have him a couple of times. It was great to catch up on the news on the way to London and back. Sorry to hear he’s gone.
Janet Traquair/Doug Jones
Dave, Rob & Family,
Our sincere condolences to you all at this time, keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. Sending hugs!
Brian & Janet Wedlake
Our condolences to the Russell family. Bob’s support of our small town through the years was very much appreciated.
Cheryl
Dave, Rob and families
So sorry to hear of Bob’s passing, he was always such a kind hearted man. Treasure all the wonderful memories. Thinking of you all.
Cheryl (McCarter) Warden
Carol Coleman
Please accept my heartfelt condolences at this sorrowful time. I always enjoyed a chat with your dad when I worked at McDonald’s. He was a gentleman, and his ways reminded me of my own father. May he rest in peace.
Helen Hodgins
Sincere condolences to the Russell family for the loss of a brother, father and grandfather. We few cousins who are left remember fondly the fun we had at the family hootenannies hosted by Thelma. Try to focus on the good memories.
Joan Finkbeiner
To the Russell family. Sorry for your loss. My condolences to all of you.
Joan Finkbeiner
Barb Fleet
Jim and Verla; Dave and Kelly… sending condolences. So sorry for your loss. Wishing you peace and comfort now and in the months ahead.
Steve Gould
Condolences to the entire Russell family on the passing of Bob. He was always a pleasure to encounter.
Steve Gould
Rochelle Gibbings
Thinking of you all during this sad time. Sorry for your loss.
Tim Hamather
Dear Dave, Rob & Family
We are so sorry to hear of Bob’s passing. We enjoyed being his neighbour for many years and have fond memories.
Sending sincere condolences.
Tim, Maria, Nicole & Kyle Hamather
John & Sharon McNeilly
Sending sincere condolences to all the Russell family.
We have great memories of Bob at the store and with the Mainstreet Jug Band. He loved his music, had a wonderful voice and was so enjoyable to sing with. Trusting that the memories of all the great times will help you navigate the days and weeks ahead as you mourn the loss of your father, grandfather, brother and friend. May he rest in peace.
Denise and Rob Haines
Rob, Dave and Family,
Our deepest sympathies on the loss of your dad. He was one in a million – with a tremendous sense of humour. His smile and laugh could fill up any room he entered. He touched the lives of so many people within our community. My best memories of him are centred around time spent playing in the SH Jazz Band or Community Band with him – which always resulted in a hand full of colourful jokes and a whole lot of laughs. May you find comfort in all your wonderful memories. I am sure that he will carry on in each of you.
Denise and Rob
Marg Prout
Condolences to all Bob’s family. Many thanks to Bob & Lorna, I have
a beautiful mauve Rose of Sharon in my flower garden. Cherish all
your wonderful memories.
Dave Keys
Dave
So sorry to hear of your fathers passing.Our condolences goes out to the entire family.
Dave, Shelly and Rachelle Keys
MaryJane Taylor
Dave, Rob and Families
My Sincere Sympathy in your loss of a dear dad
and grandpa…Bob loved his music and joining with
friends for fellowship…I am sure mom Lorna was
smiling to greet him…May fond memories comfort you …..
Fred Ducharme and Vicki Wale
Rob, our sincerest sympathy to you and your family.
Carol Windsor
Rob & Tara and family
So very sorry for your loss. Rob – I certainly miss our conversations when you were servicing your Frito Lay vehicle at the dealership. Please know you are definitely in my thoughts. Cherish those wonderful memories created by a great father.
Ernie & Dianne Ahrens
To The Russell Family: So sorry to hear of the passing of Bob , our thoughts and prayers are with all the family at this difficult time. Many great memories to cherish . Deepest sympathy to all. Rest in peace Bob .
George Godbolt
Lois and I wish to express our condolences to Bob’s family on your loss. I had the privilege of making music with Bob over many years, in the Main Street Jug Band and the church choir. He was a great singer and “front man” for the Jug band. He had lots of great lines, always available for every occasion, causing all of us to laugh along with the audience.
Beth-Ann Weppler
My sympathy to the Russell family. When I think of Bob, I think of fun, laughter, a big smile and music! I had the honour and pleasure of sitting alongside Bob in the community band and with SHDHS band. Oh the fun we had and good conversations. He was always there with a warm smile and encouraging words and something to make me laugh. I had continued contact with Bob after I graduated when “The Bobbsey Twins” would visit a few of us at our University locations and at our new homes. Although it’s been years since we have been in touch, he will always hold a special place in my memories and I will forever be grateful for the frienship he gave so freely and the positive impact he had on my teens and early years starting a family. He was truly one of kind!
Beth-Ann Weppler
Allen and Marjorie Oke
Dave and Rob…our sincere condolences to you and your families.
Doug & Deb Masse
Rob and Tara, Dave and family,
Our deepest sympathies on the loss of your dad. Bob was a good man and will be remembered fondly. May your memories bring you comfort during this difficult time.
Ed and Karen Willis
Dave, Rob and families,
So sorry to hear about the loss of your dad. Thinking of you all during this time.
Brenna and Barry Vincent
Dave and the entire Russell family,
So sorry to hear about the passing of your dad. Sending you our sincerest condolences.
Phyllis Lightfoot
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Bob Higgins
My condolence to the Russell Family, I sang in the Main Street United Church choir with Bob many years ago, I had the pleasure of meeting Bob several years ago while I stopped off at Rob’s house we had many stories to tell, I left Exeter in 1967, he was a great man.
Steve Baynham
My condolences Rob and Dave… RIP Bob…the tigers have a spot for you…
David and Mary Evelyn Hockey
Bob was the best. I’ll never forgot the first time going over to the Russell house and having a beer with Bob and falling asleep in the chair. He always welcomed me into his home and we shared a lot of laughs.
When Mary Evelyn and I were dating and came to Exeter, Bob welcomed her into his home and they enjoyed visiting over the years. She had her first Alexander Keith’s at Bob’s house and saw her first white squirrel in his backyard. We road-tripped with Bob and Dave to see a Tigers game in Detroit which was a great day with lots of laughs.
We both have Bob Russell memories to make us smile.
We will miss him and extend our deepest condolences to the family.
Kathy Hayter(Wells)
So sorry for your loss of Bob he was a wonderful gentleman with always a smile keep your fun loving memories close to your heart
Dave and Robin Prout
Dave, Rob and family
Sorry to hear of Bob’s passing. He was a wonderful friend and neighbor for over 20 years.
Dave and Robin
Kim Mckay
Dave, Nicole, Michelle, Rob, Tara and family
My deepest condolences on the loss of your Dad and Grandpa! Thoughts and prayers to you and your family!
Linda and John Wuerth
Dave, Rob and family
So sorry to hear about your dad. I remember when we were neighbours on Kingscourt and Bob would be leaning over the fence in our back yard telling jokes. He had a great smile and laugh. Bob will be missed by all of you but your memories of your dad will be in your hearts forever
June E Morenz
To The Russell Family: So sorry to read of Bob’s passing. He was a big man with a big heart. I would often save him a seat at Dining For Seniors. When he was around, there was always a lot of laughter. He was a special man. My sincere condolences to his family.
Paula Hohner
Dave, Rob and families,
I have so many fond memories of your Dad (and Mom). Always so warm and welcoming. His big smile and laugh were contagious and lit up a room. He knew how to create a beautiful family.
Sending love and condolences,
Paula
Joyce Morgan
So very sorry for your loss, Rob and Tara, Dave and Kelly, Jim and Verla. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Tom and Carol Arthur
Our sincere sympathy to all Bob’s family. We have many great memories of the Jug Band, peanut stomps and Russell Electric. He will be greatly missed by everyone.
Wanda Reynolds
Russell Family
My thoughts are with you at this time of sorrow.
Wanda Reynolds
Jamie
Rob and Dave
Sorry to hear of Bob’s passing. He was a good man and will be greatly missed. Our deepest sympathies to you and your families.
Jamie and Danielle Oke
Doug Jamieson
My sympathy to the Russell family on Bob’s passing. He had a big heart. Enjoyed visiting with Bob and Jim at the store. Both great guys. They sold me some appliances and fixed others back in the 70s and 80s. Big fan of the MS Jug Band.
Maureen Wood
The Russell family,
Please accept my Condolences on the Loss of your Dad & Grandpa,
Al Taylor
Sincere condolences to the Russell family. I have fond memories from business at “Russell Electric” and sitting next to him in the Community choir. His booming voice was a great lead to follow. He will be a “big” loss.. Al, Bonnie
Chuck & Pam Ross
Dave & Family,
We are so sorry to hear of your beloved Dad’s passing. Thinking of you at this sad time.
Larry Taylor
Dave, Rob and families, so sorry to hear of Bob’s passing. Always great to chat with. Have many memories of his days with Main Street Jug Band.
Joan Kammerer
To the Russell family
Deepest Sympathies. Wishing you peace and comfort.
Doug Courtney
Condolences to Bob’s family….as I remember Bob was a heck of a fastball player as well….Doug Courtney
Wendi Schwindt
Dear Dave and Rob and families…so sorry to hear about your dad. I enjoyed singing with him in the choir. He was a kind man…
Brian & Helen Oldfield
To Bob’s family we send our heartfelt condolences at this sad and difficult time. His room in LTC was across the hall from my parents (Fred & Betty Tilley) so we chatted often. Having lived in Exeter many years ago, my parents enjoyed reconnecting with him and sharing stories. We will miss him and treasure our memories. Rest in peace, Bob.
Sincerely, Helen Southgate & Brian Oldfield and Fred Tilley
Brian & Debra Johnston
Our condolences to the Russell families.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this sad time.
Brian & Debra Johnston
Lloyd and Carol Moore
Our deepest sympathy Dave and Rob in the loss of your dad. Sorry but unable to attend visitation as we are here in Florida. Sincere condolences to you and your family.
Brian and Janet Wedlae
Our condolences to the Russell family. We hope all the wonderful memories you have will help you at this sad time. Bob and Lorna were pillars of this community. You should be proud.
Dave Frayne and Cathy Cade
To Dave, Rob and families:
Sorry to learn of Bob’s passing. Haven’t seen him in a while, but have good memories of the store and our road trips delivering cars.
Hope your memories will bring you comfort in the future.
Our condolences to all
Evelyn Vincent
To the Russell family
Sincere sympathy in your huge loss. May the good memories help bring peace and comfort
Rudy Jansen
My most sincere Sympathies Kelly. Take care and sympathy to all your families Rudy
Dr.Reverend Kurtis Finkbeiner
Dave Nicole and Michelle I’m sorry for your loss of grandpa and dad thinking about you at this difficult time
Karen L Brown
To Dave, Rob and family,
My deepest condolences to all of you. I will always remember Bob as a kind man who knew everyone but mostly I will remember him as the oldest student in the SHDHS band. His participation was as meaningful to his bandmates as it was to him. His name will be remembered as a blessing to all who knew him.
Hugs, Karen L Brown
Mark Heimrich
Dave & Kelly, Rob & Tara, Jim & Verla and family;
Our sincere condolences in the passing of your dear Dad, Grandpa & Brother. A big guy with a big cheerful personality always! I bought my first G.E. fridge & stove from Bob & Jim in 1988. Both appliances lasted 33 years and still worked when replaced! I had many great conversations with Bob over the years. Great guy. He cared very much for his community and served it very well in many different ways. My late Dad, Ron, enjoyed singing in the community choir with him. Bob will certainly be missed by all who knew him. R.I.P. Bob. You all remain in our thoughts and prayers.
(My Mom, Marilyn Heimrich, also wishes to extend her sympathy at this time)
Mark & Julie Heimrich & Marilyn Heimrich
Paul and Tammy East
Dave, we are so sorry to hear of the passing of your Dad. Our thoughts are with you.
Marie Hunter
It’s not easy losing a loved one. My deepest sympathies to you Michelle, Dave and family
Meghan O'Rourke
Bob will always hold a special place in my heart. I was honoured to play in the band with him throughout my years at SHDHS. He loved all his fellow band mates and would sing with pride Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville song for all of us to enjoy.
He was also the world’s best hugger and I am grateful I was lucky enough to receive those big Bob Bear hugs.
My heart goes out to all of his family. Be gentle with yourselves throughout your grief.
Bob was an incredible man who taught me to care for everyone like family. I hope to continue his legacy of positivity and care for others throughout my life.
Take care,
Meghan O’Rourke
Anita Mathers
Dear Dave and family, sorry to hear about your loss, condolences to all.
Deb Gehan
Dave and Rob and Family
So sorry to hear of your Dads passing.
We have so very many fond memories of your Dad. The many times he and The Negrijn’s would make a day trip to Frankenmuth to share the civic holiday with us and the Seips. We had a lot of laughs and really enjoyed his company. The many stories that were told around a campfire. With a few GMDs. He will be missed and fondly remembered. Sincere condolences
Deb,Bob Patrick and Laura Gehan
Cathi Clausius
Dave & girls, So sorry for the loss of your dad & grandpa. Sending you my deepest sympathies.
Irvine. R. Armstrong
To the Russell family. I am sorry to read the death of BOB. HE WAS A GOOD BUSINESS MAN. I REMEMBER THE JUG BAND PLAYING IN THE FRONT OF OUR FURNITURE STORE. THINKING OF YOU. IRV.
Nancy Buchanan-Moller
Dave, Kelly, Nicole and Michelle,
So very sorry for the loss of your father and Big G. It was always a pleasure to serve him when he came into the store. Thinking of you all 💜
Nancy Buchanan-Moller
Gary and Judy Kyle
Dave and Kelly. Please accept our sympathy in the loss of your Father.
Tom Rolph
I’d like to send my condolences to Rob, Dave, and family. Bob was a very good man, and the many times I visited his home in my teen years, his only rule, “don’t drink my IPA!”
RIP Bob
Rob & Tara Russell
Dad
We were a team until yesterday….. You raised Dave and I …. After mom departed unexpectedly….. That was hard on all of us !!! But we carried on full throttle…..The Russell way….. Hard work, dreaming and succeeding………Rest in peace you created a beautiful family….. Love always
Rob & Tara