Obituary of Valerie Helen Russell

A presence that will be deeply missed, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Predeceased by son, Michael. Will be lovingly remembered by her three children, Graeme (Christine), Sandra (Dave), Alan (Karen), ten grandchildren, one great grandchild, sister Karen (Dave), brother Derek, family and friends far and wide.Val had a lifelong love of travel, she hiked in Nepal, explored fjords in Norway, enjoyed the tropical breezes of Hawaii, to name just a few. She was a teacher by profession and not being one to sit on her laurels during retirement, moved to China to teach English – twice!, she was thrilled when her students achieved the highest test scores within Weifang Province. Home for Val meant yearly treks to Ontario, Florida, and Scotland, connecting with family, loved ones and friends along the way.She loved fuzzy navels (the drink), art, sports cars, and her Boathouse. She hated cats, and weeds in her garden. She was very generous, and regularly invited family and friends out for a meal to a fancy restaurant or the pub, the more people and the more boisterous - the better! Val was a passionate political activist for Scottish freedom, she campaigned then voted in the 2014 Referendum for Scottish Independence, she stayed up all night to watch the voting results as they came in, but by early morning sadly stated, ‘I will never see it happen in my lifetime’. Dinna fash Mum, we will take up the baton.A life well lived, on her own terms, the ultimate lesson for all of us – thank you Teacher, Val, Mum.No flowers, funeral, or services upon request, once it is safe to travel again, Val’s ashes will be spread on the beach in front of her old home, in her beloved bonnie Scotland. Wherever I wander, wherever I rove,The hills of the Highlands for ever I love!Raise a wee dram to Val - Fare thee well lass…..