Obituary of Rev. Russel Newhook

Rev. Russel Herbert Newhook, BA, MDiv, 80 years of age, peacefully went to meet his maker, surrounded by his loving family, on May 18, 2016 at Dykeland Lodge, Windsor, NS. Born in Moose River Gold Mines on March 13, 1936, Russel was the eldest son of the late Herbert and Gladys Newhook, and husband to Sylvia (Dean) Newhook for 60 years. 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 University, Mount Allison, and Atlantic School of Theology, working towards his Ordination. In 1972, Walton Pastoral Charge was Russel's first charge as an ordained minister. For his last years of preaching before retiring in 1999, Russel returned to Walton, which became as much like home as Musquodoboit. His request was to be laid to rest in the Grace United Church Walton 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. Besides his parents, Russel was also predeceased by his sisters Mary Wilbur and baby Donna. Cremation has taken place, with no visitation by request. A graveside committal service will take place at Grace United Church Cemetery, Walton, on Sunday, May 29 at 2:00 p.m., Pastor Kayla Colford officiating, followed by a reception in the Grace United Church Hall celebrating Russel's life. 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. Donations in memory can be made to the Dykeland Lodge Palliative Care, Heart and Stroke Foundation, the Lung Association, or to a charity of your choice. Arrangements have been entrusted to Arimathea Funeral Home in Upper Musquodoboit, and J. Wilson Allen Funeral Home, Summerville, 1-902-633-2431. Please visit our website at www.allenfh.ca to sign the guest book or send private condolences.