Obituary of Freeman S. Russell

It is with great sadness that the family of the late Freeman Samuel Russell announce his passing on December 11, 2024, at Happy Valley Goose Bay at the age of 82. 

Leaving to mourn with fond and loving memories are his wife Rosalind and his children Todd (Joey), Dwayne (Michelle), Dwight (Krista), Roberta (Lorne), Vicki (Alton Jr.) and Robert; Daughter in law Jeanette;  grandchildren Nico (Stephanie), Dwayne Jr. (Megan), Nicholas (Ashleigh) Mckenzie (Brandon), Tristen, Hannah, Emma and Taylor;  great-grandchildren Austin, Bennett, Quinn, Theo and Lainey; brother George and sisters Laura and Clara. As well as a very large circle of nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends. 

He is predeceased by his parents Lavinia and William and his brothers Albert, Jacob, Norman, William, Robert, Howard, Redgeway and sister Susan; and his beloved grandson Marc.  

Freeman was born and raised on the south coast and lived in Rexons Cove, Port Hope Simpson, Williams Harbour, Charlottetown and lastly Goose Bay. He loved those places and shared many fond memories of times spent with family and friends there. He was a true Labradorian, Inuk, who hunted, fished and lived off the land in the same places his people had for thousands of years. He could tell you about his own family history, but he also knew the family history of all those that lived around him. He loved to read magazines and books on Labrador history. He was a true son of Labrador, and he couldn't be prouder at being one. He was awarded a number of medals in recognition of his various contributions to Labrador and its people. 

Freeman was well known for his kindness and eagerness to offer a caring word of support to those who needed it. He was well respected for his knowledge and his ability to find a solution to just about any problem. He was a well-known boat builder, and self-thought expert mechanic.  He was always quick with a smile and took every opportunity to tease and joke with anyone whether he knew them or not.  He was wise and if you met him, you wouldn't forget him, and he would never forget you. He was proud of all those who worked hard and tried to make a good life for themselves and was happy with their success. He encouraged all the people he met to do their best and work hard and he especially instilled this in his own children who admired him greatly.  

He unselfishly worked hard his entire life providing for his family. His wife Rosalind, his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren were the most important things in the world to him and he loved them all deeply. He was so very proud of each of them.  

He will be sadly missed by his family and friends and especially Rosalind and his children who all loved him dearly and respected him tremendously. He will always remain cherished in our hearts and memories.  

Visitation will be held at Fillatre's Funeral Home in Goose Bay on Thursday December 12th, from 7:00pm - 9:00pm and at the Anglican Church in Charlottetown on Saturday, December 14. Funeral service will be at St. Mary's Anglican church in Mary's Harbour on Sunday, December 15th, at 2:00PM. Interment to follow on Monday, December 16, at Williams Harbour.  

Donations in honor of Freeman’s memory can be made to the NunatuKavut Medical Travel Fund, fundraising@nunatukavut.ca

If you would like to send a message of condolence to Freemans family, please email vmorris@labshrimp.com