July 29, 1970 – August 2, 2026
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, colleague, and friend, Russell (“Russ”) Ling.
Russ passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family, after a courageous battle with cholangiocarcinoma. He faced his illness with remarkable strength, determination, and dignity. Even through the most difficult days, his concern remained focused on those around him, a reflection of the selfless man he had always been.
To know Russ was to know kindness. He was humble, patient, caring, and compassionate, with a quiet strength that made others feel safe and supported. He had an infectious smile, a wonderful sense of humour, and an incredible ability to make people laugh, even when life was difficult. His empathy and genuine interest in others left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Russ was deeply devoted to his family. Russ and Krista were soulmates, best friends, and true partners in every sense of the word. Their life together was built on a deep and unwavering love, filled with laughter, friendship, and countless memories that Krista will carry with her always. Being a father to Lucy was one of the greatest joys and proudest parts of Russ’s life. He loved her beyond measure and was immensely proud of her. Her accomplishments, happiness, and dreams meant the world to him, and there was nothing more important to Russ than knowing she was happy and supported. His love for Lucy was unconditional and immeasurable, and the bond they shared will remain a lasting part of the incredible father he was.
Russ believed in hard work and giving his best in everything he did. In the year before his illness, he accepted the position of Assistant Manager of Health and Safety and Custodial Services with the Rainy River District School Board, a role that brought him tremendous pride and fulfillment. He often turned to Krista with a smile and said, “I could do this for 20 more years.” Those words reflected how grateful he was to have found work that inspired him and gave him such purpose.
Before joining the Rainy River District School Board, Russ dedicated 38 years to Taggs Source for Sports, where he was a shareholder and manager. He took immense pride in serving generations of families throughout the community, especially supporting local youth in their sports and activities. To Russ, customers were never just customers—they became friends, and many felt like family. Whether helping a child find their first pair of skates, fitting a family for hockey equipment, or simply taking time to chat, Russ believed relationships mattered more than sales. He never forgot a face and made everyone feel welcome. His integrity, generosity, and willingness to help others left a lasting legacy that reached far beyond the workplace.
Throughout his illness, Russ continued to demonstrate extraordinary courage. Cancer may have changed his circumstances, but it never changed the man he was—kind, humble, thoughtful, and full of love. He appreciated every visit, every conversation, and every act of kindness shown to him and his family.
The overwhelming outpouring of love and support from family, friends, coworkers, neighbours, and even strangers has been a powerful reminder of the lives Russ touched. It is impossible to measure the impact one person can have, but the countless messages, prayers, and acts of generosity shared in his honour speak volumes about the remarkable man he was.
Russ was predeceased by his parents, Nelda and Ernest Ling, and his brothers, Paul and Marcelain. He leaves behind his loving wife, Krista; his cherished daughter, Lucy; and many family members, friends, and colleagues who will forever carry his memory in their hearts. Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing that his kindness, laughter, strength, and love will continue to live on through all who knew him.
Celebration of Life
A Celebration of Life for Russ will be held on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at La Place Rendez-Vous in Fort Frances.
In keeping with Russ’s wishes, this evening is meant to be just that—a celebration. He wanted the people he loved to gather together, share stories, remember the good times, and most importantly, laugh together. Rather than traditional funeral attire, we invite everyone to honour Russ by wearing happy colours and helping us fill the room with the warmth, humour, and joy that he brought to so many lives.
Light appetizers and beverages will be provided, along with a cash bar. And, at Russ’s very specific request, there will be no “funeral sandwiches.” We hope that little detail brings a smile, because that is exactly what Russ would have wanted.
Family, friends, colleagues, and members of the community are warmly invited to join us as we remember Russ through stories, laughter, friendship, and love, and celebrate a life that meant so much to so many.
With Gratitude
We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to our family, Russ’s countless friends, coworkers, neighbours, healthcare professionals, and members of our community whose love, prayers, support, generosity, and kindness surrounded Russ and our family throughout his journey.
Russ was incredibly fortunate to have many close and lifelong friends whom he cherished deeply. There are simply too many to name individually—doing so would likely add another page to this obituary—but please know how important each of you was to him. The friendships Russ built and maintained throughout his life meant more to him than words can express, and the love and support you showed both Russ and our family, particularly throughout his illness, will never be forgotten.
To everyone who called, visited, sent messages, shared memories, offered help, made us laugh, sat quietly beside us, or simply reminded us that we were not alone: thank you. Your compassion carried us through some of our darkest days, and the love you showed Russ is something our family will carry with us always.
In Russ’s Memory
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Russ’s memory to the Canadian Cholangiocarcinoma Collaborative (C3):
Alternatively, our family would be deeply honoured if those who are able would consider donating blood in Russ’s memory. Russ proudly donated blood regularly for more than 25 years. During his cancer journey, he found himself on the receiving end of that same generosity, relying on blood products given by donors he would never meet. Giving blood in his memory would be a beautiful way to continue the kindness Russ quietly gave to others for so many years.
“How lucky we are to have loved someone who makes saying goodbye so hard.”
Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever in our hearts.
