MR. RUSSELL BEATTIE of Bassano, beloved husband of the late Mrs. Pearl Hall, passed away on Sunday, December 19, 2010 at the age of 87 years.

Russell was born in Lemesureier, Quebec on March 7, 1923 to Mary Ann and Wilfred Beattie. After his father died when Russell was 3, he moved to East Angus where he was raised and educated. In 1947, he married Pearl Hall, with whom he spent 40 long and happy years. He was the proud father of 3 children; Linda of Coaldale, AB, Barry of Brampton, ON, and Wendy of Red Deer, AB; and grandfather of 4 grandchildren; Tara, Kate, Ryan and Sarah.

He spent 47 years in the paper making industry as an employee of Domtar Ltd., working his way up from tester to paper mill superintendant. In the mid 70's Pearl and Russell moved first to Cornwall, ON and finally to St. Catharine's where he retired in 1986. After his wife's death in 1988, he passed his time in St. Catharine's; golfing, bowling and ""coffeeing"" with his many friends and former co-workers. His last years were spent at Playfair Lodge in Bassano, Alberta, where he was a much loved member of the community.

Russell was a quiet, gentle man with a special sense of humor who was never happier than when he was with his wife and family. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing, gardening and playing cribbage. He was a Past Master and Life Member of the Masonic Lodge.

Russell is survived by his daughters Linda (Norman), Wendy (Bruce); son Barry (Bridget); grandchildren Tara, Ryan, Kate (George), Sarah; sister-in-law Muriel Hall; brothers-in-law Jack Hall, Doug Hall, Doug Giles; as well as several nieces, nephews and their families.

Besides his loving wife Pearl, Russell was predeceased by his parents Mary Ann and Wilfred Beattie; brother Wesley, and sister Ruby.

A Funeral Service will be held at 1:00pm, on Thursday, December 23, 2010 at the MARTIN BROS. RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 - 4 Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta, with Reverend Bob Wallace, officiating. Interment will follow in the Mountain View Cemetery.

For those who wish, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Lethbridge, 402, 740 - 4 Avenue South, Lethbridge, Alberta, T1J 0N9.