Russell Spencer Earl October 28, 1923 - December 27, 2011 Russell Spencer Earl was born on a farm near Roche Percee, Sask., on October 28, 1923 and passed away in Estevan on Tuesday December 27, 2011 at the age of 88 years. A Veteran of World War II, Russell served his country as a Flying Officer in the Bomber Command # 6 Group, 424 Tiger Squadron. As a pilot, he flew 35 missions and received the Distinguished Flying Cross. Following his service to the Royal Canadian Air Force Russell worked as an Immigration Officer in North Portal for 25 years, retiring on December 28, 1980. In his later years Russell was involved in the Halifax 57 Rescue which is the raising and restoration of the actual Halifax Bomber he flew in the War. He was an active member of his community with the United Church, and with sports and recreation. He was also a life-time Legion member with the North Portal Branch #117. Russell was an avid reader, and sports enthusiast who especially enjoyed playing golf on the course outside his backyard in North Portal, and watching his children and grandchildren participate in their hockey and ball games. Russell was a loving husband, father, proud grandfather and great grandfather. He is survived by his beloved wife, Elsie of 64 years; sons, Norman and Gary (Shauna) Earl; grandchildren Kevin (Lori), Terry, Garett and Macy Earl; and six great grandchildren, as well as several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Norman and Lavina Earl; brothers, Clifford (Margaret), Lawrence (Mary), Ken (Irene), and Lloyd; and his grandson Jayden Earl. Russell's life was celebrated in a service on January 2, 2012 at 1:30 p.m. from the Chapel of Hall Funeral Services, Estevan, with Mr. Doug Third officiating. A private interment was held prior at Souris Valley Memorial Gardens. Those so wishing may make a donation to the Halifax 57 Rescue (Canada), Box 606 Nanton, AB T0L 1R0, or to the Saskatchewan Heart and Stroke Foundation. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Hall Funeral Services, Estevan. Thank You The family of the late Russell Earl wishes to thank all who helped us through this most difficult time. Thank you for all the prayers, cards, flowers, phone calls, visits and donations in memory of Russ. Thank you also to Doug Third for his comforting words and excellent service; to organist and friend Bette MacDonald; and to the North Portal and Estevan Legion members and Shauna Meek who so graciously commemorated Russ. A special thanks to our grandchildren for their tender words at the interment and service, and to the Legion for the luncheon, and to Hall Funeral Services for their guidance and the kindness they have shown us.
