Russell Grant Hamilton
June 7, 1929 – December 8, 2018
With sadness and much love, we announce the passing of Russell Hamilton of Devon Alberta (formerly Wapella, Saskatchewan) on December 8, 2018. Ten months after the loss of his beloved wife of 63 years, Alma, Russ passed away at home, with family by his side, at the age of 89.
Beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, brother, friend, Russ is survived by his three children, Rayona Hamilton, Lyle (Camie) Hamilton, Donna (Mike) Palmer and four grandchildren, Keaton Hamilton, Brealyn Hamilton, Remick Palmer, and Rhys Palmer, brothers Clarence and Keith (Eileen) as well as several nieces and nephews. Russ is predeceased by his wife Alma, parents Wesley and Marguereta Hamilton, brother Bert, sisters Rella, Fay, and Shirley.
Russ was born and raised in rural Saskatchewan. After high school, he worked for a short time at a bank but then came to Alberta seeking better opportunities in the Oilpatch. He began working with Imperial Oil in 1955. Together with Alma, they built their first home in Devon and started a family. During a 33-year career with Imperial Oil, Russ and Alma moved from Devon to Redwater, then Calgary, Norman Wells, Swan Hills, Redwater again, then Libya and finally back to Devon, were they eventually retired.
A consummate carpenter, Russ took great pleasure in construction and renovations in all their homes, designing and building basements, garages, trailers, furniture, cribs and beds for grandkids, and more. Russ also enjoyed hunting and taking care of his hunting dogs, golfing, cross country skiing, curling, camping and fishing, and playing tennis and bridge. Spending time with his grandkids, taking them camping and fishing, was something he enjoyed immensely. Along with Alma, he travelled the world, visiting Greece, Malta, Europe, England, Scotland, Mexico, all across Canada, and spending many winters in Arizona, California and Nevada.
A celebration of life will take place at Devon United Church on Saturday, December 15, 2018 at 1:00 pm, reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Russ’s name to the Alberta SPCA, 17904 118 Ave NW, Edmonton AB T5S 2W3 or online at www.albertaspca.org or Devon United Church, 2 St. Clair Street, Devon Alberta T9G 1J3 or online at www.devonunitedchurch.org.
Condolences: serenity.ca
Serenity Funeral Services, Leduc AB
Ph: 780-980-3688
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Mike Palmer
Russ was a kind, gentle and generous human being. I was fortunate to call him my Father-in-law. I can honestly say he NEVER raised a hand or raised his voice in anger. He was humble despite his philanthropic generosity. He truly LOVED his Family and always had a special place in his heart for his Grandchildren. He and Alma were a special couple who loved life and approached each and every day with a positive outlook. May God bless Russ and give His strength to the entire Family at this time of need.
karen palmer
Donna, Rayona ,Lyle and your extended families…
Not so long ago you suffered the loss of your mother, Alma (truly a “lady”); and now, sadly, the loss of your father, Russ (a “gentleman”, for sure).
As it is often said “the acorn doesn’t fall far from the tree”. You have been present, supportive, devoted, and selfless in the care and gracious love you’ve shown to both Russ and Alma in the last chapter of their lives. I’m certain they were equally exemplary as parents to each of you as they guided you into adulthood.
Now is the time to find the support and strength you need…from your families, friends and all of us who love and care for you.
xo
Karen (Percy) Palmer