Russell Mark Elford Goad
18-May-1922 – 21-Jan-2025
Born on May 18, 1922, Russ passed away peacefully, with family at his side, on January 21, 2025, at the amazing age of 102 and a half. Born in Brixton, Devon, England, he was a proud Canadian.
Russ met the love of his life, Mary, at Sunnyside Beach, and they were soulmates for 73 years, marrying at age 20 in 1942. Russ reported for Air Force duty for WWII the day after their wedding. His intelligence and diligence allowed him to achieve the highest score in training as a Morse Code operator. He was posted to rural outposts in northern British Columbia, including Bella Bella, where he captured foreign Morse Code messages during daily flights that were decrypted using the famous Enigma machine. After a few years of essential and dangerous service, Russ was discharged, receiving many medals acknowledging his contributions to the war effort.
After being home for just two weeks, he was summoned for service in the Army, where he served again in Ottawa. During this time, Russ and Mary were blessed with their first child, Jim, followed by their additional children: David, Ron, Susan, Patty, and Christine. Russ lived with Susan from 2007 until just before Christmas 2024, when his medical needs required professional care. During his month-long residency at Sunnybrook Veterans Centre, he received outstanding care.
Russ’ life was enriched by his 13 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. As the family patriarch, he was so very proud of his family of 45 immediate members. His primary occupation was that of an accountant, working at Union Carbide and Supreme Welding.
Russ had three predominant passions in life: his family, his military service and his subsequent Legion membership of 78 years – he was their ‘ringer’ in Cribbage tournaments – and his trailer. Russ was also a skilled woodworker, turning this talent into a cottage industry alongside Mary, who contributed her ceramic pieces. He loved to golf and was an avid reader and crossword puzzle master.
Services will be held at McEachnie Funeral Home (28 Old Kingston Road, Ajax) on Saturday, January 25. Russ will be laid to rest beside Mary at Pine Ridge Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to the Sunnybrook Veterans Centre, Royal Canadian Legion – Branch 606, or a charity of your choice.
Service Details
Visitation: Saturday, January 25, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
Location: McEachnie Funeral Home Chapel (28 Old Kingston Road, Ajax).
Funeral Service: Saturday, January 25, 2025, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Location: McEachnie Funeral Home Chapel (28 Old Kingston Road, Ajax).
Interment: Saturday, January 25, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Location: Pine Ridge Memorial Gardens (1757 Church St. N., Ajax).
Reception: Saturday, January 25, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Location: Royal Canadian Legion Branch 606.
