We regret to advise of the death of Chief Warrant Officer Russell Byron Bedell, CD (Ret’d) in Dartmouth General Hospital on 31 July 2020 at age 90. Russ served a full 31-year career in the Canadian Forces.
Russ was born in River De Chute NB and was raised in Toronto. He embarked on his 31-year career with the Canadian Forces when he enrolled in 1948. Russ first served a five year term with the Royal Canadian Navy on HMC Ships Magnificent, Huron and Micmac and on rescue craft at HMCS Shearwater. He later re-enlisted and served 26 years in the Royal Canadian Air Force, first as an Aero Engine Technician for CF-100 Canuck aircraft, then re-mustering to a Construction Engineer. He served with the Canadian Military Engineers with postings to bases that included St-Jean QC, Borden, Uplands, North Bay and Rockcliffe in Ontario, Canadian Forces Station Alert NU, Chatham and St. Margaret’s in New Brunswick, Cold Lake AB, and twice at Halifax NS. Following his retirement from the Canadian Forces, Russ served 12 years as a civilian in the Construction Engineering Section at HMC Dockyard in Halifax before he fully retired in 1995.
Russ and Doris fostered seven children in Chatham, NB. Russ was active in all the communities he lived in such as coaching youth hockey, helping build floats for parades and background sets for amateur theatre plays, flipping pancakes at church suppers, serving breakfast for the Dartmouth Boys and Girls Club and, in retirement, spending many hours working at the food bank. Always an active member of his church, Russ was a Fourth Degree Knight with the Knights of Columbus at St. Thomas More Parish. He served on many parish councils, with the St Vincent de Paul Society, and was a Minister of the Eucharist taking communion to the sick and homebound for many years. Russ worked on the St. Thomas More refugee committee, not only helping families get a new start in Canada but also remaining a mentor and friend long after the new Canadians settled in their new homes.
In consideration of everyone’s safety during the COVID-19 pandemic and Russ’ wishes, there will be no visitation. Cremation has taken place, with a private family interment. The family will hold a Celebration of Life at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Canadian Red Cross or other charity of your choice is appreciated. Online condolences can be sent to the funeral home.
