In memory of

Brenda Russell/Strutt (nee Cohen)

December 15, 1928 -  January 19, 2025


“Mummy, you were loved so much, by so many and for so long!!! Those who had the privilege of knowing you the way we did, will cherish forever their countless memories of you.

We remember how easily you lit up the room with your radiant smile - bold and beautiful were you! What a delight you brought to everyone who enjoyed the breathtaking array of your delectable homemade treats!

Your love for dancing brought joy into every life you touched. You filled our hearts and lives with happiness. We can still picture you twirling around, with laughter echoing as we joined in, creating a dance party in the living room. In those moments, you taught us how to feel comfortable in our own skin and the importance of seeking out every opportunity and celebrating life to its fullest. You had a unique way of making each of us feel special, and were instrumental in both creating lifelong memories and helping us realize our dreams.

You were more than just a mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, great-aunt and companion in life, you were the heart and soul of our family. Your warmth and love will always be remembered, and we are grateful for every moment we shared with you. Your legacy is truly one of love, resilience and strength. From you, we have learned how to overcome obstacles and keep moving forward. You will forever be in our hearts, and your priceless gift of unconditional love will inspire us always.

Mummy, there is no need for goodbyes as in our hearts and minds, you will always be right here with us!!!!” 🩷🩷🩷🩷

Brenda loved and was loved dearly by her daughters Elizabeth Strutt-MacLeod (late Murray), Caroline Snow (Doug), Louise Leifer and the late Judith Taylor; her sisters Rita Cohen, Estelle Bresnark and the late Sylvia Robbins; her grandchildren Melissa Leifer (Mark), Jordan Taylor (Holly), Tamara Alves (Paul), Clayton Taylor (Sarah), Rachel MacLeod, Blake Taylor (Rochelle) and Nevin MacLeod; her great-grandchildren Myla, Maverick, Abigail, Melia, Matteo, Emerie, Avery, Maxwell, Mila, Rylee, Georgia, Nina and Adelaide; her partner in life, the late Peter Gartner; and all of her nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and many, many dear and wonderful friends.

UPDATE 💗💗💗💗
An Afternoon Tea Party to celebrate Brenda’s remarkable life will be held by her daughters on Saturday May 31st, 2025 from 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm. Please contact Caroline @ 647-519-6700 for location and details if you would like to attend.

Guestbook 

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Stephanie and John MacArthur (Dear friend and neighbour)

Entered January 23, 2025 from Burlington

Brenda was a treasure to those who knew her. She was ever eager to laugh, dance and share her delicious food with all. We managed to become true friends over the years. She will always be loved and in my heart. Thank you dear friend.

Robert Gartner (Family)

Entered January 23, 2025 from Guelph

Everything about her brought me joy. We laughed often. We complained often. We agreed to disagree often. We helped each other often. She helped me mature into a better person. Brenda will always have a corner of my heart that will never diminish. I loved her dearly. She was a great mensch.

Doug Snow (Favourite Son-In-Law)

Entered January 31, 2025 from SCARBOROUGH

Good-Bye Darling. I remember lunches in Burlington with you. I remember your apple strudel. I remember you, my favourite mother-in-law. Love from your favourite son-in-law.

Lorrie Byrne (Step daughter)

Entered April 24, 2025 from Guelph

Brenda was such a lovely lady and I will miss her so much. She has been an integral part of my life for many years. I'm so happy we met and grew in many ways and shared many laughs. Love you.

Caroline Snow (Daughter)

Entered August 7, 2025 from Toronto

My mum and I shared a very special kind of love and support as I grew up. She was always there for me through the hours, the days, the years, through the laughter and the tears with a gentle truth and a loving and understanding heart. I am so grateful to her for everything she did and for being the most amazing, strong and wonderful mother and friend a daughter could ever wish for or want. We had a unique bond that no matter what, at the end of the day she was my mum and I loved her dearly, she will always hold a very treasured and special place in my heart. ❤️

Photos 

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