September 4, 1944 – August 21, 2026

In loving memory of Russell Willis who passed away on Friday August 21, 2026, at the Dryden Regional hospital.

Russell was born in Portage La Prairie, MB. He was lovingly raised by Albert and Ethel Storey in Oxdrift, ON.

Russell is survived by his daughter Taryl (Ken) Bougie, Barrie ON, son David Willis, granddaughter Ella, his sister Anita (Dennis) Hott, brother Randy (Laraine) Storey, sister-in-law Doreen (Glen) Wrolstad, best friend Ian Hastings, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Russell was pre-deceased by his wife Carol, his parents Albert and Ethel Storey, his brother Jack and sister Marie, and his beloved dog Domi.

Dad was a very hard worker and a great provider for his family. In his younger years, he worked for Sidbelt Masonary, Colenso sawmill and when the opportunity arose, he spent the rest of his career working in the Stud Mill at the Dryden Pulp and Paper mill. Dad had an amazing work ethic; he was dependable and could always be counted on to help others.

Dad grew up in the country and his love of the outdoors stayed with him throughout his lifetime. He loved camping, fishing, hunting, blueberry picking, going for rides on his 4-wheeler, sitting around the campfire at Amesdale sharing stories and some laughs. A good cup of black coffee and visiting family and friends was a good day in his eyes.

In his later years, Dad travelled with family to West Edmonton Mall (a life long dream of Davids), a trip with friends Ian and Mike to see the Rocky mountains (a life long dream of Dads) and a trip with David to visit Barrie – a gift he gave to Taryl and family.

Taryl & David would like to thank all of our extended family, (past & present) for supporting, encouraging and loving Dad throughout his lifetime. Your acts of kindness & love do not go unnoticed.

We would also like to thank Dr Viherjoki and the nursing team on East unit of DRHC. for your care and compassion in his last days.

Memorial donations may be made to the Dryden Regional Health Services Foundation,
P.O. Box 3003, Dryden, ON, P8N 2Z6 or Community Living, 99 Albert St, Dryden, ON, P8N 1J1 or through Aurora Funeral Services.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Dryden Go-Getters on August 26th, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. with Mardi Plomp officiating. Interment at the
Dryden Cemetery will follow.

Arrangements entrusted to Aurora Funeral Services, 304 Kennedy Road, Site 202, Comp 39, RR3, Dryden, ON P8N 3G2.