Our beloved Russell Garth was born on a cloudy windy Monday, on the last day of August in 1970. This was a special day as there was an Annular Solar Eclipse. It is said that babies born under a solar eclipse, are sprinkled with a little more pixie dust, and are destined for greatness.

Russell Allen, known as Garth, aka Elgarto, and known by many other names, wore his heart on his sleeve. Born into the astrological zodiac sign Virgo, a Virgo man is observant, helpful, practical, dependable and honest. According to an online article, people born on the 31st are "Practical and grounded. You are blessed with creative ideas. You're conscientious and hard working, and strive to get results. You work well with others but prefer to be in charge. People respect and admire you, and rely on you for advice." He was known for all these characteristics, they made him a thoughtful, loving and trustworthy human being, in all walks of his life.

Life for Garth started on Keary Street in New Westminister. At an early age he had an interest in cars, and anything with wheels, especially motorcycles. This interest followed him through his entire life. He became a self taught master of mechanics, there wasn't a machine that Garth could not fix. Anything that Garth put his mind to he became a master of.

The Family moved to Cartier Avenue when Garth was four years old. As Garth grew older, he became attracted to animals. Throughout his life he owned many different species of animals. He bred lizards, and fresh water fish. He had a passion to care for them. He left behind a treasured salt water aquarium, that his dearest and closest friend will care for in his memory.

Garth also had a passion for birds. He knew a bird by it's song, by it mating call, by it's plumage, and found solace in being near them. He was so proud when he spoke about his Blue Fronted Amazon Parrot Charlie. Garth raised Charlie from a young chick, and dedicated his time everyday to go to the pet store and hand feed him. This was during his 10 years living in Edmonton. His love for birds was a constant, and was something he was well known for.

A man of many talents, Garth's other interests were skateboarding, music, photography, mountian biking, cooking, biology, astrology and anything outdoorsy with his best pals from Maillardville. He was happiest when surrounded by his friends, the tight knit group that is over 40 years in the making through school years at Millside, Maillard and Centennial, and created life long lasting friendships. Not to mention the Edmonton gang, his passing has reached all across North America. He was best know for always being there for anyone, anytime, never any questions about it. He was such a warm and big hearted person, a teacher, a lover, a friend, a companion, a brother, a son, an uncle, an angel. He will be sadly missed.


In memory of our dearest Garth, donations can be made in his name to the following oganizations:
George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary - reifelbirdsanctuary.com
O.W.L. Orphaned Wildlife - owlrehab.org
World Wildlife Fund - wwf.ca