Dr. Alan Lawrence Russell

It is with great sadness that the family of Dr. Alan L. Russell announces his passing on Sunday, February 5, 2023 at the age of 85.

Alan will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 53 years, Lucie; children, Beth (Patrick), Tori (Mike), Anna; and grandchildren, Emily, Hannah, Dylan, Max.

Alan was born in London, England, shortly before World War II. Unaware of this perilous start, he developed a calm demeanour that he would carry throughout life. With very little means and few opportunities in his early years, Alan achieved higher education through his determination, intellect and the encouragement of a few. It was his family doctor who encouraged him to pursue medicine, which became his life’s passion.

Alan studied medicine at St. Bartholomew’s Hospital in London. It was there that he met Lucie. They married in 1969 and moved to Canada to start their life together – one that was full of adventure and unreserved love for each other and their family.

Alan built a family medicine practice and his interests eventually led him to treating those with chronic pain. His unending drive to support his patients led to many advancements and international recognition in the field. Not one for the spotlight, he continued to treat patients at his Brampton practice until shortly before his death.

While Alan’s unfailing efforts as a physician touched the lives of many people, to his family he was much more than Dr. Russell. He was a quiet steady presence in all their lives and a deep source of knowledge on seemingly everything. He had a dry wit and sneaky sense of humour. He grew to embrace cottage life, venturing across the lake in an old tin boat with his family, dog and ever-present sun hat. There he could be found listening to his audio books, clearing the bush and befriending local chipmunks. It was at the cottage where he discovered that there was very little that couldn’t be fixed with glue. He was a prolific letter writer, avid chess player and unmatched storyteller.

A celebration of Alan’s life will be held on Thursday, February 23, 2023 at 3:00 pm at St. Jude’s Anglican Church, Brampton. Please share your condolences or tributes in the condolences section of this page. Donations in Alan’s memory may be made to The Salvation Army.