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Bill Russell Memorial [Community Endowment Fund]

Continuing Bills Community Involvement

Barbara and Bill Russell moved to Lethbridge as a young couple in 1946. They worked hard, raised three children, and contributed to the quality of life in Southern Alberta in a wide variety of ways.

"This corner of Alberta is a wonderful place to live and my husband was very interested and involved in many things in the community, particularly the Public Library and University," said Barbara, who was also an active volunteer for groups including the Southern Alberta Art Gallery.

Bill practiced law with Virtue and Company and, based on his belief in the importance of giving to the community, got involved in numerous volunteer organizations and causes. Among many other things, he served two terms on City Council and was the Chairman of the Public Library Board of Directors during construction of the new library, building. He was a Senator for the University of Lethbridge and then its Chancellor for four years. Bill's extensive community service was recognized in 1992 when the University of Lethbridge presented him with an Honorary Degree.

Sadly, Bill died in june 2001 at the age of 84. As one way to continue his work in the community, Barbara decided to begin a memorial fund in Bill's name. "I heard about the Lethbridge Community Foundation, thought it would be a good thing to support ...and I did," she said. "I am impressed with the work the Foundation is doing and I will continue to support it."

From LCF Report to the Community 2004