RUSSELL (Rev.) Stewart Burgess

86, Truro/Bedford, Nova Scotia, died peacefully in the VG Site, QEII, Halifax,

Nova Scotia, surrounded by his loving family, on Saturday, June

16, 2018. Born in Amherst, Nova

Scotia, he was the son of the late Henry and

Bertha (White) Russell. (Amherst Point, N.S.) He grew up on the family farm and following high school, graduated from advanced farm class at NSAC and returned to work on the farm with his father. During that time, he became a leader in farm, church and youth organizations, serving as president of Maritime Conference, Young People’s Union (YPU). As a candidate for the ministry of the United Church of Canada, he attended Mount Allison University and Pine Hill Divinity Hall, served in student mission work and lay ministries, including a year in Bermuda and time in Saskatchewan. In 1960, he married Elisabeth (Bette) Cook of Moncton, N.B. They lived in Bear River, N.S., where he served the church, while continuing studies at Pine Hill Divinity Hall, Halifax. Following ordination in 1962, they moved to Ohsweken, ON, where Stewart was appointed to ministry on the Six Nations and New Credit Reserves. Returning to the Maritimes, he served as minister in Springhill (N.S.), Liverpool (N.S.), Oromocto (N.B.), Alberton, Clifton (N.S.), and Campbellton (N.B.), retiring from St. James & St. John United Church in Miramichi (N.B.). Over the years, Stewart and Bette enjoyed summers at their cottages in Port Howe (N.S.) and later at Bayhead (N.S.), eventually buying their retirement home by the waters of the Tatamagouche Bay (N.S.). They appreciated community life in the Tatamagouche area where they resided for 15 years, after which they moved into Parkland Estates in Truro (N.S.). Following Bette’s death in 2015, Stewart moved to The Berkeley in Bedford (N.S.) where he resided until his death. Stewart enjoyed his ministry, giving the opportunity to worship, and work with people sharing the church’s mission. He served on many committees and boards, particularly pastoral relations and church support, World Mission Division, Tatamagouche Centre and Pine Hill Alumni Association. He was an avid gardener over the years, and was also actively involved in community projects and organizations, such as the school board, family services and mental health. Stewart was well loved and respected in both church and community life. His patience and understanding made him a great role model to his family and will be greatly missed by all. Stewart is survived by his children, Miriam (Kevin) Fancey, Toronto, ON; John Russell (Isabelle Mélançon), Dieppe, N.B.; Ruth (Mike) Roberts, Bedford, N.S.; grandchildren, Matthew and Sarah; Andrew and Amélie; Jillian and Ben; sister, Doris Lockhart; sister-in-law Marina Russell; several nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife Bette of 54 years, he was predeceased by sister, Frances (Lionel) Funt; brother, Keith Russell; brothers-in-law, Ches Lockhart, George (Gwen) Cook, David (Marion) Cook; nephews, Russ Lockhart, Graeme Cook. Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall - Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro, Nova Scotia, where Stewart’s family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, June 20, 2018. Funeral service will be held 2 p.m., Thursday, June 21, 2018, in Old Barns United Church, 2603 Highway 236, Old Barns, Nova Scotia. Reception will follow in the church hall. Interment will be held in Highland View Cemetery, Amherst (N.S.) at a later date. Donations can be made to Mission & Service Fund of the United Church of Canada or charity of choice. Private messages of condolence may be sent to the family by viewing Stewart’s obituary on-line and selecting “Send A Condolence” at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com