Al Russell

Allister (Al) Francis Russell
North Sydney

Allister (Al) Francis Russell, 61 left us with heavy hearts and memories of his kind and quiet soul.  After a short, courageous battle with cancer he passed away peacefully in his home on Friday, August 13, 2021 with family by his side.
Lovingly known as Dad, Pops, Poppy, Brother Al, Uncle Al, and a dear friend, Al was a gentle by nature man and had time for anyone that asked. He loved his family, friends and all animals. He always had food ready for neighborhood cats that needed love and shelter. His friends could drop by for a friendly game of washer toss and a shoulder to lean on if needed. Those who knew Al, loved Al.
Al loved Rock and Roll music and was eager to play his amazing library of tunes for any occasion. His family remembers him being the DJ that always kept everyone dancing. It was his way of sharing his love.
More than music, Al loved his daughters Sherry, Alison (Greg), and Amanda. He later gushed over his grandchildren Haley, Dekota, Miley, and Alex. He adored them and spoke of them often. Becoming a guardian to Haley in his mid-fifties put pep in his step and gave him a renewed purpose in life.  His undeniable compassion, kindness and honesty shows in all of his children and grandchildren.
Al was raised in a family of nine boys, simply known as the Russell Boys. Rob, (Vi), Sandy (Tracey), Ron (Trina), Joe (Salome), Lloyd (Llola) and Troy (Heather). He set a great example of understanding, kind-heartedness and brotherhood with his brothers.
Al was taken from us much too soon leaving us with much pain and sadness. We will move on carrying his love and kindness. As Al would wish, we will do our very best to learn from his gracious path of simplicity and humbleness and to carry compassion, caring and love to all we meet.  
You will be missed more than you could ever dream AL, Father, Grandfather, brother, uncle and friend.
A Graveside Service is scheduled for Wednesday, August 18th, 2021 at 1pm at Holy Cross Cemetery, Johnston Road, North Sydney, followed by a Celebration of Life at the North Sydney Fire Hall. We welcome, and encourage, anyone who knew Al to join us.
If you feel so inclined, we suggest that you make a donation to your local animal shelter in Al's memory.

Funeral arrangements are under the care and direction of the W.J. Dooley Funeral Home, North Sydney.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.wjdooley.com

“Much Love”

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Al Russell, please visit our floral store.