John (Jack) Robert Russell was born March 20, 1927 in Balcarres, SK to Robert and Blanche. When Jack was in grade 8, his parents moved with him and his brother William to Muskeegan where he completed the school year. Four years later the family grew when his brother George was born.

Jack started working for Bob and Harry Spoule in the bush with swede saw, ax, horse and sleigh in the winter of 1942/1943 while continuing to help his parents on the farm during the summers. He continued his logging experience working for Kendall and Iverson. He became a self-employed logging contractor in the early 1950’s. He was one of the first contractors hired when Simpson Timber opened in Hudson Bay. Jack retired from contracting in 1980.

Jack purchased his first quarter of land in 1958, beginning life as a farmer that summer.

Jack met and married the love of his life Divina May Grant on July 29, 1960. They began their married life in Prairie River. They were blessed with three children – Sheila on January 20, 1962 and twins – Grant and Lorna on October 20, 1963. In 1964, they purchased the home quarter. They moved the Muskeegan School and turned it into the family home in 1967. They raised their family and continued to live in this home until 1993 when they purchased a house in Hudson Bay. Jack continued to work on the farm with his son Grant until 2004.

Jack enjoyed playing softball (remember the fun the Prairie River Jacks had), curling (where there was always something out the back door of the rink to warm you up), pool, shuffleboard and crib. Jack enjoyed driving, the family enjoyed many trips to BC to visit family and friends and every second year a trip to the Swan River Rodeo. Jack took his car for a last spin on August 14th, 2019.

Jack loved his wife’s cooking and especially the dessert. Even at the end he would have a little of his meal but would finish all of his dessert and look for more.

Jack was predeceased by his parents Robert and Blanche; his brother William; and sisters-in-law Amelia and Joy.

Jack is survived by his wife of 59 years May; his son Grant (Charlotte); his daughters Sheila (Ron) and Lorna (Larry); his grandchildren: Brad (Hilary), Frank (Sheena), Kyla (Dylan), Tyson (Caitlin), Christine and Chelsey (Dillon); his great grandchildren: Nevaeh, Nixon, Bennett, Hailee, Raelyn, Emmett and Penelope; and his brother George.