Mighton Funeral Home LTD.
Funerals, Cremations & Life Celebrations
40 Years of Trusted Care
Ayton, Durham, Elmwood, Chesley and surrounding areas since 1984.
Shirley Isabel Russell, of Hanover, passed away peacefully at Hanover Care Centre on Sunday, November 2, 2025. She was 88.
Born on February 26, 1937 in Hanover to the late Elmer and Wihelmine (nee Little) Fritz. Beloved wife of Warren Russell of Carlsruhe until his passing in 1997.
Survived by children John (Patricia) Russell of Hanover, Clare (Deri) Russell of Elmwood, Greg Russell of Hanover, and Diane (Paul) Wilken of Hanover. Loved grandmother of Jay Zettel, Katie Bauchman, Jacob Russell, Jordan Whitmore, Justyne Sweeney, Taylor Donnelly, and Rayann Murray. Survived by her sisters Julie Hartman and Ruby Birr. Predeceased by her daughter Debbie, sister Maxine Bucholtz, and brothers William "Bud" Fritz and Larry Fritz. Shirley had 9 great-grandchildren Landon, Laila, Max, Minna, Owen, Blakelyn, Charlie, Wrenley and Riley.
Shirley was deeply involved supporting Warren in their dairy operation, cider mill, and corn drying business. This was in addition to raising 5 children and spending quality time with her grandchildren.
Shirley loved her farm in Carlsruhe and took great pleasure in caring for her flower gardens and heritage stone house. Her faith in God was present in everything she did including quilting, embroidering, knitting, sewing, baking, and preserving. She delighted in the simple pleasures of life like warming up by the wood stove or relaxing on the porch. An avid learner of nature was inspired by her spectacular view of the surrounding countryside.
Her family remembers her as a devoted mother, grandmother, and friend, whose gentle spirit, creativity, and love for life left a lasting impression on all who were fortunate to know her.
To honour Shirley’s wishes, cremation has taken place.
Public visitation will be at Mighton Funeral Home in Hanover on Sunday, November 16th, from 1:00pm to 3:00pm. A private Graveside Inurnment Service will be held on Monday, November 17th at Hanover Cemetery.
Memorial donations to The Alzheimer Society of Canada would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy.
Arrangements entrusted to the care of Mighton Funeral Home, Hanover. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.mightonfuneralhome.ca
MY DEEPEST CONDOLANCES TO THE FAMILY. REMEMBER ALL THE GOOD TIMES. WHAT A SPECIAL LADY AND MOM. NORMA
- NORMA RUHLJohn, Clare, Greg, Diane, Jay....We are truly sorry to hear of the loss of mom, grandma...Thinking of you... Rick/Sandi Begon
- Rick/Sandi BegonSending sincerest condolences to the entire family. Thinking of you in your time of loss.
- Cheryl & Phil HickeyDi and Paul, I'm sorry to hear of Shirley's passing. She made the best homemade lemonade. Take comfort in knowing she was well loved.
Lisa Rumble
Deepest sympathy to the entire family! Shirley was a beautiful lady! Take comfort in all the great memories you have with her.
- Deb BennettCondolences to Jay, John, Clare, Greg, Diane and families.
So sorry for your loss. Deepest sympathy Al Monk
Our Condolences to all the Family. Shirley was lovely and we remember her welcoming warmth over the years.
- Anita schmidtMy thoughts are with you Diane and family.
Laureen Hopkins
John, Clare, Greg, Diane and families. My condolences on the loss of your mom.
Treasure your memories.
Deepest sympathy to all the family. May your wonderful memories help you through this sad time.
- Helen GadkeJohn, Clare, Diane, Greg and families; My deepest condolences in the passing of your Mom. She was a great lady. Classy in every way. So many fond memories with the Russell family come to heart. Sending love and hugs to all during this difficult time.
Heather Grant (Blue)
Sending sincere sympathy to the Russell family for your recent loss. Shirley was a beautiful, kind soul who was a pleasure to know. What a wonderful tribute you have written for your Mother. Keeping all of you in my thoughts and prayers. May your treasured memories surround and comfort youđź’•
- Jeannette WilkenTo the Russell family- we extend our deepest condolences. Shirley was a beautiful lady and such a kind and caring person. May she RIP and be united with Warren and her daughter-Debbie. xoxo
- Harriet Trothen ( Witter)My sincere condolences to all the family. So sorry for your loss.
- Beverlee Gateman
