Captain Russell Phillips – 09 November 1922 ~ 18 January 2023

World War II Veteran and retired Captain of the Toronto Fire Department, Russell died peacefully on January 18, 2023, at age 100. Predeceased by his beloved wife of 69 years Sarah (Sally). He will be greatly missed by his daughter Patricia Irons and son Tom (Margaret), grandchildren Jennifer Hunter (John) and Alison Backer (Andrew) and great-grandchildren Braeden, Kaeley, Elliot, and Seth. Fondly remembered by his nieces and nephews and friends.

Russell was a proud 39-year veteran of the Toronto Fire Department; his career began on the 18th of March 1946. Russell was promoted to Captain on the 4th of November 1966 and retired on the 30th of May 1985 after 39 years. Russell was also a proud member of the Toronto Fire Fighters’ War Veterans Association; he is missed at the monthly meetings. Russell served with HQ Company, Three Rivers Regiment at the Battle of Ortona, in 1943.

Visitation – Monday, February 6, 2023, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am – Mount Pleasant Funeral Centre, 375 Mount Pleasant Rd., Toronto

Funeral Service – Monday, February 6, 2023, at 11:00 am – Mount Pleasant Funeral Centre, 375 Mount Pleasant Rd., Toronto

Reception – Monday, February 6, 2023, Following the Service Mount Pleasant Funeral Centre, 375 Mount Pleasant Rd., Toronto.

Online condolence messages may be left on Russ’ memorial page, found at www.etouch.ca

If desired, donations may be made in Russ’ memory to the Sunnybrook Foundation or War Amps.

Sincerest Condolences from all our Retiree Groups go out to his Family and Friends.

In Solidarity, Retired Toronto Fire Fighters Association I.A.F.F. Local 3888