Obituary of Russell Walter Muncaster

Russell’s family would like to inform you that he has left his wheelchair for the last time after thirteen long years. He was predeceased by his best friend of 67 years, Carol Ann Ault (June 27, 2024). He is survived by his daughters Marion Elizabeth Melse and Penelope Ann Muncaster, and his son R. Paul Muncaster (Ellen). He also leaves grandchildren, Peter Melse, Josephine Muncaster and Manuel Muncaster, great-grandchildren, Ev Melse and Logan George Melse and his sister, Carol Anne Muncaster.

He was predeceased by a son-in-law and a precious granddaughter.

Prior to a stroke thirteen years ago, Russell led a wonderful, full life. A true northern boy, cars, fishing, and hockey were his passions. He went to school in Sudbury, Pickering College and Ryerson Institute of Technology. Russell grew up in a retail store (Canadian Tire), first in Sudbury and then in his own store in Deep River. He changed his vocation and with his wife and three children, headed to Waterloo Lutheran University (Hon.B.A.), then Clark University (MA, PhD). Russell returned to teach at WLU, where he held the positions of Chairman of the Geography Department, Dean of Arts and Sciences, and Academic Vice President. In his thirty-year career at Laurier, he seldom missed a hockey or football game. Students were his highest priority, and he loved teaching. After his wife and family, cars, reading, and travel consumed his leisure time.

To remember a loving, kind, and gentle man with a wonderful sense of humour, please raise a glass of Scotch/Irish Whiskey at 5 o’clock.

Cremation has already taken place. A private interment will follow.

If you wish to contribute to offsetting Dad’s (or Mom’s) carbon footprint, please consider planting an honorary tree through the Grand River Conservation Authority website, https://www.grandriver.ca/who-we-are/grcf/make-a-donation/honorary-trees/.

Thank you.