Obituary of Russell James Sparrow

On March 2, 2013 surrounded by his family, Russell James Sparrow beloved husband of Leone, passed away peacefully at B.R.H.A. at the age of 85. Russ was born Dec.4, 1927 in Kenton, MB the second child of James and Johanna Sparrow. He attended school at Kenton, Harding, Roseneath and Glanton. He started a 26 1/2 year career with the C.P. R. in 1948. His heart was set on farming and in 1951 he rented a farm in the Forrest area which he later purchased. He farmed and railroaded until 1974 when he resigned from the C.P.R. and he expanded his farming operation. Russ belonged to the Masonic Lodge #14 in Minnedosa. He was a founding member of the Minnedosa Kinsmen Club. He served on the boards of the Manitoba Pool Elevators, Forrest United Church and Forrest rink. Russ joined the Khartum Temple Brandon Shrine Club in 1989 and the Brandon Car Patrol Unit in 1990. Russ and Leone moved to Brandon in 1997. They travelled extensively spending many winters in Hawaii and Arizona making life long friends wherever they went. Russ was very proud and supportive of his family. His grandchildren held a special spot in his heart. He proudly shared his many stories and memories. Russ enjoyed being active in the Shrine Club, golfing and socializing. He enjoyed his years farming and his love and interest in farming never ended. Left to cherish his memories are his loving wife Leone of 60 years, Jim (Mary) Sparrow, Barbara (Kim) Campbell, and Janice (David) Leslie; Grandchildren Michael (Shey), and Kevin Sparrow, Sean, Kalee, and Tara Campbell, Monica and Brett Leslie. He is also survived by his sister Olive (Ken) Toovey, brother Ed Sparrow and sister-in-law Ena Sparrow, Leone's sisters and brother and many nieces and nephews. Russ was predeceased by his parents and his sisters Josephine and Betty. A private family interment will take place at Humesville Cemetery. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Central United Church, 327-8th Street, on Friday, April 12, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Barb Jardine officiating. In memory of Russ, donations can be made to the Heart and Stroke Fund or Cancer Society.