Russell James Washkowsky

Russell was born on August 9, 1962 to Raymond and Leona (nee Skaalrud) Washkowsky in Humboldt. He obtained his elementary education in Humboldt and after the family moved to the homestead near Muenster, he completed his education at Muenster School. As a child, Russell had a passion for hockey, he loved to play and watch the game throughout his school years. He also really loved spending time with his friends and that never changed. After graduation, Russell worked at various jobs – he was not afraid of hard work. In 1981, he was fortunate enough to land a position with Sask Power as a linesman. This job provided Russell with the opportunity to travel throughout the province to different job sites, but he always had his sights set on coming home and he looked forward to the weekends. In 1984, Russell decided to try something totally new and went to broadcasting school to become a radio announcer – because he loved to talk and he loved music. Eventually Russell returned to working with Galbraith Powerline Contracting as a power linesman once again. He thoroughly enjoyed this job and was very proud when he eventually obtained his Journeyperson Linesman. Unfortunately, in 1993 he was involved in a horrific work accident that left him unable to work again. Russ became a dad in 1999 and was so very proud of his three children Alexander, Erin and Ava. Russ tried to not let his disability slow him down and he continued to try to remain busy with his acreage. His acreage became his sanctuary and a place where he found peace and tranquillity. Russell loved feeding and watching wildlife around his property, especially the birds and the deer. He also enjoyed taking his quad out around the area. Sports remained an interest and he loved watching any sport on television, with hockey and football being his favorites. Russell always enjoyed just hanging out and visiting with family and friends more than anything. You could often pull in the yard and hear the 80’s tunes blasting in the house or in the shop. Russell had an enormous heart, he trusted people to a fault and welcomed anyone who showed up at his door.

Russell will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his three children: Alexander (Kacy) Washkowsky of Regina, Erin Washkowsky and Ava Washkowsky, both of North Battleford;  mother Leona Washkowsky of Humboldt; two sisters: Rhonda (Martin) Been of Saskatoon and Lori Washkowsky (Brent Lucyk) of Humboldt and family Ryan (Tammy Curtis) of Humboldt and children Kadynce and Katherine, Mitchell (Kaitlyn De Jong) of Regina, Matthew of Humboldt and Emily Lucyk of Saskatoon. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles and cousins, all of which were very special to him.

Russell was predeceased by his father Raymond Washkowsky on April 29, 2017.

The Funeral Mass for Russell was held on Friday, December 27, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. at St. Augustine Roman Catholic Church, Humboldt celebrated by Fr. Joseph Salihu.  Interment will follow at a later date.  Memorial donations in Russell’s memory may be directed to St. Mary’s Villa Foundation, Sask. Abilities Council or Kloppenberg Wildlife Refuge.