Russell Charles Nickerson

NICKERSON, Capt. Russell Charles, 74 of Port Joli, left the wharf for his final journey August 21, 2021.

Russell was born in Port Mouton. He was the eldest son of Harriet (Huskins) Nickerson and the late Charles Nickerson.

He is survived by his wife, Sheila (Allison); children, Lorna (Mike Corbett) and Russell (Theresa Johnson), grandchildren Alexandra and Elijah Stephenson, Isaiah Nickerson, great grandson Coleson, brothers Richard (Joyce), Leslie (Betty), Sterling (Cheryl), Keith (Donna), Bentley (Stephanie) and sister Laura (Wayne) Cranton.

Russell was a career fisherman who worked his entire life on and around the ocean. Through his career that spanned more than fifty years, he fished the waters of the North Atlantic, the North Pacific, the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean in a variety of fisheries. Over the years Russell made many friends and acquaintances whose company he treasured. Russell was a master storyteller. He had remarkable accounts of adventure, danger, bounty and excitement. He was a true fisherman with a tale for every occasion, and forceful opinions on the issues of the day. As salty and unpredictable as the ocean itself, Russell shared his zest for life and made the most of each day.

Russell was an avid hunter and sport fisherman who loved the outdoors. When he wasn’t on the water, he might well be in the Queens County woods. He was a generous man who shared his love of nature with his children and grandchildren. Planning for and participating in the first day of the trout season is a family rite of passage. His final catch was landed just days before his passing, and it was enthusiastically shared in story, cell phone pictures and delicious fillets. Later in life, Russell took up gardening, learning at the hand of his Uncle Bruce and his friends and neighbors. A final gift to his family is his formidable vegetable garden yet to be harvested.

Russell had great passion for causes he considered worthy, particularly those relating to fisheries, habitat and wildlife management. He was instrumental in establishing the green crab industry in Nova Scotia and worked to design the ‘Russell’ trap used in the commercial industry. Never without a project or a plan, he enjoyed the pursuit of change and progress. In his last words as he left the dock for the final time, Russell encouraged his loved ones to “take the good with the bad.” We wish him smooth sailing.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of Chandlers’ Funeral Home, Liverpool, NS. A celebration of Russell’s life will be held at a later date. Donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, Queens General Hospital Foundation or to a charity of your choice. To share memories or condolences, please visit www.chandlersfuneral.com