After accepting the Leo Bruce Business Award Monday, Keith Russell said he is proud to know their efforts is being recognized by peers in the business community.
He was presented the award on behalf of Russell’s Funeral Home and Crematorium at a special meeting of the Bay St. George Chamber of Commerce to kick off Small Business Week.
Russell’s Funeral Home was started in 1959 by Keith’s dad, Cosmos Russell, in Stephenville Crossing, with their Stephenville location established in 1967 and Keith going to work with his dad in 1986.
After his dad died in 2005, Keith and his business partner, David Mooney, eventually purchased the business from Keith’s family in 2012 and along with their spouses Amanda Russell and Colleen Fitzpatrick continue to make improvements and expand the business.
“Receiving this award was a surprise but something I’m proud of. (Our administration) work hard to service the needs of our clients, to give them dignified service in the most difficult time of their life,” Russell said.
He said on behalf of the owners they feel proud and grateful for the support of the Bay St. George region during their past 51 years in Stephenville.
Russell is proud of the work his dad did in establishing the business in the first place and building it up through the years.
The Leo Bruce Business Award for Entrepreneurial Excellence was established by Bruce’s family with the first presentation taking place in 2001.
