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Obituary published in the Victoria Times Colonist
Tuesday, July 6, 2004
DONALDSON Andrew Russell - Born October 6, 1939, at Dawson Creek, BC, died suddenly and tragically on the morning of July 1, 2004, at Sasamat Lake, BC. He is deeply missed by his wife, Joan, his mother, Margery Donaldson, daughters, Christine Giesen (Oliver) and Stephanie Kelly (John), his brother, Robert Donaldson, and grandchildren, Gabrielle, Bridger and Ryan Kelly. Also left to mourn his loss are his step-children, Laura Colleen, and David Wright (Glenna) and step-grandson Christopher Brewin. Russ was a loving husband, father, and friend. He was a fine athlete, well known among the Masters swimming community of BC. Russ was President of the Victoria Crystal Silver Streaks swim club, a past Vice-President of the BC Masters Swimming Association, a coach for Special Olympics swimmers, and a member of the Recreation Renewal Commitee for the City of Victoria. Russ was also a member of the Ex-Cadet Club of Vancouver Island, having been a graduate the Royal Military College in Kingston, ON, and had served with the Canadian Forces in Canada, in Europe, and in Egypt. His work after leaving the Forces took him to Jamaica, Italy, Germany, and Papua New Guinea. Russ will be immeasurably missed by everybody who ever met him. A Memorial Service was held at the First Memorial Chapel, 4725 Falaise Drive in Saanich. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to BC Special Olympics.