Russell, Charlotte Irene

CHARLOTTE IRENE RUSSELL, beloved wife of Fergus Russell, of Coaldale, passed away peacefully and with family at her side at the Sunny South Lodge, on Monday, October 22, 2018 at the age of 82 years.

Besides her husband Fergus, Charlotte is survived by her children: Duncan (Loretta) Russell of Edmonton, Heather Russell (Brad Gustafson) of Chestermere and Ian (Tanya) Russell of Skiff as well as three grandchildren, Kennidy Anderson, Kourt Russell and Ty Russell. She is also survived by her sister Sharon Karp of Courtney, B.C. and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her father George Gottleb Karp, mother Elise Katherine Karp and brother Walter Karp.

Charlotte was born in Leader, Saskatchewan in 1936. In 1937, the Karp family moved to Alberta. They resided in the Crowsnest Pass area, finally settling in Cardston, Alberta where Charlotte graduated from high school. She was then employed by the local school division. After the passing of her father in 1957, the Karp family moved to Lethbridge where Charlotte worked as a receptionist and book keeper at Smith Motors. It was during this time that she met Fergus Russell. The couple was married in 1962. They made their home and raised their family in Skiff, Alberta until retiring to Coaldale in 2007.

Charlotte was always loving and kind. She never uttered a negative word about anything or anyone. All were welcome around the kitchen dining table- family, friends and neighbours, as well as anyone hired to work on the farm. Charlotte was an excellent cook, always concerned with serving all dishes piping hot. Her meals were often accompanied by her delicious homemade bread or buns. If you entered her kitchen as a guest, you left feeling like family.

Charlotte was a hardworking farm wife. Along with raising three children, she always grew a large garden. She spent long days in her kitchen, canning and processing her harvest so it could be enjoyed through the winter months. Despite being raised in the city, Charlotte embraced the rural life and even learned how to drive the combine. She proved to be a very capable harvest hand. A favourite family story illustrates her ingenuity as one year she repaired a leaking combine hopper with her chewing gum. Charlotte kept laying hens and supplied eggs to many other families. She was also of service to her community as a long-standing member of the Skiff Ladies Variety Club.

Life on the farm wasn't all hard work. Charlotte enjoyed old-time music and dancing. She and Fergus belonged to the Pemmican Club for many years, always attending the New Year's Eve Ball. Potluck suppers, picnics and other community events were also enjoyed.

Later on, Charlotte took up other hobbies such as knitting, crocheting and quilting. Many family members and friends have afghans or quilts lovingly made by Charlotte. Also, there was usually a crossword puzzle underway on the kitchen counter.

There are so many lives she touched in a positive way. So many memories that bring a smile and show the wonderful person that she was. So many stories about how she made a difference or made someone's day. So many hearts that are feeling sadness because she was here- because she loved. Alzheimer's took you from us too soon, but you will be with us always.

A Private Family service will be held.

In memory of Charlotte, donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society, #40, 1202 - 2 Avenue South, Lethbridge, AB, T1J 0E3.