Russell Leonard Tyler, 74, of Stockton, CA passed away on April 27, 2024, due to health complications. Russ was born to Christy and Agnes Tyler in 1950 in Honolulu, Hawaii. After attending Waianae High School, he began his journey into adulthood in the Navy at age 18. After his service, he pursued various occupations in Hawaii before relocating to California in 1978 to follow the love of his life, Frances, originally from Hawaii too. Russ and Frances exchanged vows in 1980, and he embraced her six children from a previous marriage as his own.
Russ dedicated 34 years to a fulfilling career in Facilities Management with the County of San Joaquin, primarily supporting the San Joaquin General Hospital, before retiring in 2013 at 63.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Frances, and five stepchildren: Jeffrey (Jaynine) Mertens, Laura (Kelly) Mertens, Denisse Low, Russell (Christina) Mertens, and Bernadine (Sal) Mertens. He was preceded in death by a stepson, Harry (Tamela) Mertens. Russ cherished his role as Papa to 14 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. His only surviving sibling is his elder brother, Nicholas Tyler. He also had countless nieces and nephews scattered primarily in Hawaii and California.
Russ's joy knew no bounds when surrounded by his loved ones. Whether cheering on his grandchildren from the sidelines of the football field or in the pool or sharing laughter with friends over rounds of golf, Russ radiated warmth and kindness. His passion for crafting authentic kalua pig and teaching others the artistry behind it was matched only by his love for Hawaiian music. During his years in Hawaii, weekends were often filled with family gatherings, where he played slack key guitar and sang traditional Hawaiian music. He was also an active and dedicated member of the Quail Lakes Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses.
Please join us in celebrating his life on Thursday, May 23, 2024, at 3:00 at De Young Memorial Chapel at 601 N. California Street in Stockton, followed by a reception dinner immediately following at the same location from 5:00 to 7:00. Additionally, a separate service will be conducted in Hawaii at Valley of the Temples Memorial Park in December 2024, where Russ will be laid to rest in the family plot.
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