Ronald Blake Russell

Peacefully, with his loving family by his side, Ron Russell passed away at his home in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, on January 11, 2026, at the age of 83 years.

Ron will be forever cherished by his beloved wife of 57 years, Joan Russell, and by his children Denise Raduloff (Yuri) of Calgary and Murray Russell (Gail) of Portage la Prairie. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Khalie (Yaro), Tianna (Ethan), Jadyn (Maddy), and Rio, each of whom brought him great joy and meaning.

He is also lovingly remembered by his sisters Janet Braun of Vancouver and Bonnie Ressler (Dennis) of Calgary, along with his many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and a wide circle of friends who were touched by his kindness, humour, and genuine care for others.

Ron was predeceased by his parents James Webb Russell and Alice Evelyn Anderson; sisters Faye, Ruth, and Gwen; brothers Gary, Blaine, Jim, Dale, and Gordie; and mother and father-in-law, Lyle and Dorthy Sylvester.

Ron married the love of his life, Joan, in 1968 in Carman, Manitoba, beginning a life together rooted in love, hard work, and deep devotion. From an early age, Ron learned the value of work and responsibility on the family farm. Though farming was always close to his heart, his passion also extended to the machinery business, where he built lasting relationships and eventually opened AgWest Equipment in Portage la Prairie.

More than his work, Ron will be remembered for the way he lived. He was a fun-loving, strong, and caring man who truly valued people. He made friends easily and kept them for life—through curling, ball, business, farming, and time spent with friends in Silver Ridge, Mesa, Arizona. To know Ron was to feel welcomed, respected, and cared for.

Above all else, Ron loved his family. His children and grandchildren were his greatest pride, and the people in his life meant everything to him. His strength, warmth, and steady presence will be deeply missed, but the love he gave so freely will live on in all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the Herman Prior Centre in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba. The service will be livestreamed, to register and view visit Ron’s obituary page at www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com . A family interment will take place at Evergreen Memorial Gardens Columbarium at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Nurses Foundation, in gratitude for the compassion and care nurses provide to individuals and families during life’s most tender moments.

A tree will be planted in memory and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel. www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com