Randall Robert Russell, age 65 passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, August 25, 2019. He was born August 10, 1954 to William Martell Russell and Veda Peay in the Tooele Valley Hospital. He graduated from Tooele High School in 1972. He then went on to join the United States Army from 1973 to 1979. He served in Germany, where he was a Military Police. He was awarded the National Defense Service medal and a marksman M16, .45 Cal pistol. Randy graduated from Weber State College in 1980 with a Bachelors in Police Science. He married his sweetheart Michelle Spiers on July 28, 1980. Together they had two beautiful daughters, Diane and Cindy. He enjoyed fishing and teaching his girls how to fish.
Randy worked for the Utah State Department of Health where he was an analyst. He was able to retire early and was enjoying retirement until he had a massive hemorrhagic stroke only two weeks into his retirement in 2008. The doctors did not think he would survive. The stroke left him paralyzed on the left side and confined to a wheelchair. His wife decided he would not go to a nursing home so she had the whole house redone so when he left the hospital, he would be able to come home. She became his 24-hour care giver. They grew closer in those extra eleven years. Even though he was not able to walk he still chose to get out of bed and be productive.
He enjoyed going fishing with his makeshift fishing pole which was build special for him since he could only use one hand. He also enjoyed going camping in their little van camper and was able to go to Yellowstone National Park, Rockport Reservoir, and Zion National Park. His favorite local camp spot was the Springville KOA. He enjoyed the company of all six of his grandchildren. They all loved to help with grandpa whether it was helping him to bed or playing games with him. He was looking forward to watching them have a water balloon fight and ride their new bikes.
Mom, we want to thank you for taking such great care of Dad and giving him a wonderful life after it seemed like so much was lost. You found the best in each other. You are an amazing woman. Dad would not have been able to make it eleven more years if it was not for your loving and compassionate care you gave him every day until the end. He was one lucky man!! Dad we love you and miss you.
Randy is survived by his wife of 39 years Michelle; daughters Diane (David) and Cindy; sister Jean Dalton; and 6 grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents William and Veda.
A viewing will be held from 6-8 PM on Thursday, August 29, 2019 at Valley View Funeral Home at 4335 W 4100 S, West Valley City, UT. Funeral services will be held on Friday August 30, 2019 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints meetinghouse at 253 South 200 East, Tooele UT. The family will welcome visitors starting at 10:30 AM, and funeral services with military honors will begin at 11:00 AM.
