Russell Rennie, Sr.
AVCO-Textron retiree
Russell A. Rennie, Sr. of Andover, formerly of Chelsea, passed away on July 28 with his loving family and beloved wife, “Dossie” at his side in the peaceful surroundings of his home. He was 80 years old.
Born and raised in Chelsea, he was a son of the late Timothy and Anna Marie (Landry) Rennie. He attended the Assumption Parochial School in Chelsea and graduated from Everett Trade School.
He was the beloved husband of 58 years of Dorothy (Flavin) Rennie. Together they resided in Chelsea for many years raising their family and making their home on Spencer Avenue for over 30 years.
Russell enlisted in the US Air Force National Guard and was discharged in 1964 at the rank of S/Sgt. after nine years of honorable service. He also worked as an engineering specialist inventing solutions for government projects at AVCO/Textron in Everett for 30 years before retiring at the age of 51, when he and “Dossie” began enjoying many retirement years in Sumner, Maine.
He was a member and past chairman of the French Naturalization Club in Chelsea. In his lifetime, Russell could be counted on as a “Mr. Fix-it” for all things electrical and repairs around the home and workplace. He enjoyed snowmobiling, hunting and a good game of cards.
He was the loving and devoted father of Timothy P. Rennie and his wife, Carrie of Merrimac, Nanette (Rennie) Fournier and her husband, R. Marc of Andover, Lorell A. (Rennie) Lawrence and her husband, Wayne of Berwick, Maine, Russell A. Rennie Jr. and his wife, Karen of Merrimac; devoted grandfather of Michael Conte, and Sarah, Megan, and Jacob Lawrence as well as many loving cousins, nieces and nephews. He was the dear brother of the late Raymer, Martin and Jeanette Rennie.
In his later years, he and Dossie moved to Andover, with Nan, Marc and Mike, where they enjoyed making new friends at the Center at Punchard senior center.
Family and friends are invited to remember Russell during the visiting hours on Tuesday, August 8 from 2 to 6 p.m. at the family home, 134 Elm St. Andover MA. 01810. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Merrimack Valley Hospice, 360 Merrimack St. Bldg. 9, Lawrence, MA 01843. For directions and further information, please visit: www.WelshFuneralHome.com