Obituary of Russell Zavitz

It is with profound sadness that we announce the death of Russell Zavitz on July 1, 2024 with the love of his family surrounding his heart and soul. Russ was born May 11, 1935 on the outskirts of the tiny village of Dorchester. Loving husband and soul mate of Margaret Rose (Batchelor) who, for 67 married years, were seldom apart, always enjoying family, sports, adventures, friends and community together. Loving and playful father of Gail (Tony) and Michael (Kelly). Proud grandfather of Kasey (Ryan), Josh, Blair (Jaime) and Dylan. Great grandfather of Caden and Carter. Special uncle of Kory (Emily). Brother of many siblings and their partners of the Zavitz family. Russ served his community for 38 years on the North Dorchester Volunteer Fire Department. A lifelong athlete from baseball to hockey (his favorite). Russ played for the joy of the game, playing with the Dorchester Diggers hockey team as they travelled across Canada and the U.S.A. While on the team, Russ earned the nickname of "Pappa Smurf" for his small stature and speed; 19 years in London's senior Huff and Puff league when he was forced into retirement with his vision loss. Russ still skated this past winter at the Flight Ex Centre. A mechanic by trade, he was the Service Manager at Harper Detroit Diesel of London for 30 years. Russ loved nature and the outdoors - from camping and fires to swimming, fishing and hunting. From the beaches of Sauble, Port Burwell to Long Point Bay, then into the wilds of Killarney, Kippawa and Algonquin, he explored it all. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff and Palliative Care Team at Woodstock Hospital for their compassionate care and support during Russ' final days. Cremation has taken place with interment at Dorchester Union Cemetery later. Please join us for a Celebration of Russ' Life on Saturday, August 3, 2024 at the Dorchester Legion, 1227 Donnybrook Drive, Dorchester between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. Words of reflection and remembrance of Russ will be given at 2:00 p.m. Memorial contributions to the charity of your choice would be appreciated. Online condolences may be made at www.biemanfuneralhome.com (Bieman Funeral Home, 3970 Hamilton Road, Dorchester, ON N0L 1G2 - (519)-268-7672 - in charge of arrangements) Russ' presence in this world will be dearly missed by all who knew him and loved him.