Russell Henry Hillier

Russell Henry Hillier of Coronach, SK and formerly of Moose Jaw, SK, passed away in the arms of his wife on Tuesday, August 19th, 2014 at the age of 89 years.  Russell was born on August 24th, 1924 in Coronach, SK and grew up on the family farm south of Coronach.  Russell attended Coronach School.  After his schooling was finished Russell farmed with his brother George and worked at the Coop in Coronach.  When he wasn’t farming Russell bought and sold cars.  Not only did he make extra cash doing this, he always had a new car to drive.  Russell also drove a school bus for several years.  Russell married Viola Vinek on April 22nd, 1952.  They continued to farm south of Coronach.  It was there they raised their five children and entertained family members and many friends.  Russell loved his family and friends, enjoying all of the special family events that took place over his lifetime.  In his prime Russell loved to curl and was the Draw Master for many bonspiels.  Another of his favourite pastimes was to watch his children participate in their many activities.  Russell enjoyed having coffee twice a day with his friends and neighbours.  Being a man with a great sense of humour Russell enthusiastically pulled pranks on his friends and family, especially on his good friend Harrison Sherwin.  They were known to fill each other’s grocery carts, or to drive the other’s car into snow banks.  A few years after retiring from the farm Russell and Viola resided in Moose Jaw, SK where they continued to entertain family and friends.  They also travelled to several different areas of the country to visit those near and dear to them.  Russell and Viola celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary this year with a candlelight dinner at the Health Centre in Coronach.  The staff at the Centre were instrumental in making the dinner a success.  Russell is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Viola (nee Vinek); children: Lynden (Maline), Larry (Patricia), Ron (Linda), Gwen (Randy) Brillon and MaryAnn (Larry) Gerde; 11 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Muriel Hillier; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by his parents, George and Jane Hillier; his brother, George and sister-in-law Fiena Hillier; and brother, Clifford.  The Funeral Service will be held on Monday, August 25th, 2014 at 2:00 p.m. in the Coronach Community Hall, Coronach, SK.  Reverend Marilyn Leuty will officiate and interment will follow at the Coronach Cemetery.  As an expression of sympathy, donations in Russell’s name may be made to the Coronach and Area Health Care Foundation, Box 150, Coronach, SK SOH OZO.  A special thank you to all those at the Coronach Health Centre who helped Russell in the past year.  Another special thank you to friends and family who dropped in to visit with Russell during his time at the Health Centre.  Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane.  Gary McDowell, Funeral Director, 306-693-4550.