Joseph Russell Serroul
It is with profound sadness that we, the family, announce the passing of our beloved Russie on Wednesday, December 4, 2018, in the Palliative Care Unit of the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, at the age of 85. After months of failing health, his body finally had enough, and he passed peacefully in his sleep. Joseph Russell (Russie) Serroul was born January 23, 1933, in Millcreek to Vincent Russell and Josephine (Carey) Serroul. In his earlier years he sailed the Great Lakes, as did many of his generation. However, trying to raise a family from a distance was not the life for him, so he changed course and over time, established a very reputable painting business, which he only gave up in his mid 70's. He was known across the Island as one of the best. Not one to sit idle, he took up woodworking, where he created many treasures in his beloved garage. He had many talents. However, his greatest gift was his keen wit and sense of humor. He had the ability to bring levity to life's most serious events, with the sole intent to make those around him feel better, although he alone would suffer in silence. This ability, coupled with his kindness and compassion, were the cornerstones of his nature, which extended beyond his immediate family. As a family we will carry on his legacy, but make no mistake, there is only one Russie.
With his passing he leaves behind many who loved him well; his wife of 62 years, Bridget (Bea Campbell) Serroul, and his daughters, Cathy (Wayne) Reashore, Arlene (Stephane) Serroul-Beauvais, and Michelle Serroul. He is also survived by brothers, Butch (Louretta) and Vince (Regina), sisters, Celia (Joey) McNeil, Carol Anne (Danny) Williams, Judy (Peter) Astephan, Jeanette (Brian) Forrest, and Eleanor (Shawn) Serroul, his 7 grandchildren, Shannon Brown, Marc, Meghan and Marybeth Lyle, Nicole, Natasha and Marcel Morrison, as well as 11 great-grandchildren,1 great-great-grandchild and many nieces and nephews. Additionally, his sisters-in-law, Margie (Bob) Sparks, Lena Aylward, Joan (Clayton) Eavis, Marylou (Darrell) MacIntosh; brothers-in-law, Adam (Katie) Campbell, Bud (Barbara) Campbell, Ray (Jackie) Campbell, Howie (Barb) Campbell, and Wayne (Anne) Campbell. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his only son, Marcel; sisters, Mary, Theresa, and Sandy; brothers, Walter, Martin (Sonny); sister-in-law, Diane Serroul and brother-in-law, Robert (Bob) Aylward. It is impossible to sum up ones’ life in these few words. However, we welcome you to join us for a celebration of his life, on Saturday, January 26, 2019, at 1 p.m. at Holy Family Parish Hall, Main Street, Sydney Mines. In lieu of flowers, donations in Russie’s memory may be made to a charity of your choice. Words of comfort may be forwarded to his family at www.jmjobesfuneralhome.com
