Pastor Russel Richardson left peacefully to be with his Savior on Sunday, September 13, 2015. He was born on November 11, 1911 to Ralph and Lavina Richardson in Stoughton, SK. He was converted to God on November 10, 1935 and immediately felt the call of God to ministry, and started tent evangelism, which he continued for 76 years. In 1950 he met and married the love of his life, Edna Esther Laube and were married on September 29, 1950 and together they evangelized across Canada, the U.S. and overseas. They opened and established 8 churches in 10 years and operated a training centre for 22 years, as well as Radio Ministry over 25 different radio stations for 45 years, which is still continuing today. It was in 1968 that they built the Yorkton Free Pentecostal Church, with the desire to reach as many as possible in the area and Pastor preached until recently. Many souls were saved and a great number were water baptized throughout the years. His passion was to extend the Kingdom of God, and farming and ranching in his home area of Stoughton enabled him to do that. He never missed an opportunity to pray for someone when they went to town for parts or fuel. Pastor Russel was predeceased by his parents, Ralph and Lavina (nee Horner) Richardson; his brother, Bert (Rita) Richardson; two sisters, Lila (Bob) Fenn and Doreen (Ray) Gilby. He is survived by his loving wife Edna (Honey), sisters-in-law, Ann Shindle,  Ruth (Evert) Alberts, Marge Laube, numerous nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, his fellow ministers and many brothers and sisters in the Lord that were a part of his special life. The Funeral Service was held on Saturday, September 19, 2015 at the Family Worship Centre in Yorkton with Pastor's collegues, Graham Whalin, Karle Kienle, Pastor Rick Flamont and Pastor Carl Rushton officiating. The pianist Renee Oshowy and organist Caroline Oshowy led in the singing of the hymns. Angus & Anita Vincent sang the selection, "Here I Am To Worship"; Jean Smith sang the hymn, "Welcome Lord Jesus"; Lucille Pritchard sang the hymn, "O Happy Day"; Pastor Carl & Linda Rushton sang "No Tears In Heaven"; Caroline Oshowy & Phyllis King sang "I'm Longing For Jesus". Words of Welcome were conveyed by Danny Oshowy. The obituary was read by Anita Pearce. A testimony was given by Danny Pritchard. A Tribute was given by Sister Edna Richardson and the closing prayer by Don Bouchard. All of Pastor Russell's beloved brothers and sisters in the Lord were considered honourary bearers. The interment took place in the Stoughton Town Cemetery with Sam Beutler, Darrell Noyes, Bill Symbalisty, Glen Assman, Leonard Dozorec and James Krichkowski serving as the casket bearers. "I'll meet you on the eternal shores of the world of tomorrow, where the tears will never fall; there will be no pain or sorrow. All will be well, and together we'll sing the Victory Song at last. Amen. Memorials honouring Pastor's life may be made to The Gideons or the Canadian Bible Society. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.baileysfuneralhome.com.
