Newhook, Rev. Russel Herbert, BA, MDiv – Age 80, went peacefully to meet his maker on May 18, 2016, surrounded by his loving family, in Dykeland Lodge, Windsor. Born in Moose River Gold Mines, Russel was the eldest son of the late Herbert and Gladys Newhook, and husband of 60 years of Sylvia (Dean) Newhook. After graduating from Musquodoboit Rural High School, Russel worked at Imperial Oil for six years. He then made the life-changing decision to go into the ministry. He worked on various Pastoral Charges while attending Acadia and Mount Allison Universities, and Atlantic School of Theology, working towards his ordination. In 1972, Walton Pastoral Charge was his first charge as an ordained minister. He returned to Walton for his last years of preaching, and retired in 1999. Walton became as much like home as Musquodoboit. His request was to be laid to rest in Grace United Church Cemetery.
Russel enjoyed hunting and fishing, dancing, playing cards, playing his guitar and singing. He especially loved working, playing and puttering around on “the farm,” which was a sanctuary for him and his family.
Besides his wife, Russel is survived by his children, MaryDean (Blair) Carman, Arlene Newhook, twins, Sheila MacLean and Sheryl (Bruce) Smith, Wade (Sheri), Cecile (Alan) Heighton, and Ward (Grace), as well as 17 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, Mamie Higgins, Rena Russell, Eric (Doreen), Gladys (John) Dobson, Cecil (Phyllis), and Linda Hunt. He was predeceased by his sisters, Mary Wilbur and Donna, in infancy.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit, and J. Wilson Allen Funeral Home, Summerville. Cremation has taken place, with no visitation by request. A graveside service will be held Sunday at 2 p.m. in Grace United Church Cemetery, Walton, Kayla Colford officiating, followed by a Celebration of Life in Grace United Church Hall.
The family would like to extend our sincerest thanks and appreciation for the care Russel received during his time at Dykeland Lodge, especially during the last days of his journey. We could not have asked for better care and consideration.
Memorial donations may be made to Dykeland Lodge Palliative Care, Heart and Stroke Foundation of NS, Lung Association of NS, or a charity of choice.
