Russell Leroy Mears

Russ passed away peacefully of natural causes in his home at the Apple Village Assisted Living Center on May 3, 2017. Russ was born in Salt Lake City, Utah to his loving parents William & Gertrude Mears. He had a very close relationship with his only sibling, his brother, Wally Mears. They were more than brothers, they were inseparable best friends as they grew up together in Salt Lake City. They shared many excellent adventures and fond memories together. They remained extremely close throughout their lives. After His brother passed away 3 years ago Russ missed him tremendously and thought of him every day.

Russ grew up loving many sports. In High School he played on the South High School Football team and eventually pursued his main passion, the game of golf. Russ was an exceptional golfer in his youth setting a course record that stood for many years at Nibley Park Golf Course when he was only 16 years old. He continued to play competitive golf and eventually decided to continue to feed his love of the game by making a career of the sport he adored so much. He became a member of the Professional Golfers Association of America which lead him to becoming the head golf professional at Oakridge Country Club where he served the members of the club as a dedicated and effective Golf Pro for over 30 years, from 1955 until his retirement in 1986. He continued to play and enjoy golf with friends and family well into his 80’s.

Right out of High school Russ was drafted into the Army where he served in the 110th mountain division and was assigned to fight for America in the mountains of Italy. Russ was awarded the “Silver Star” medal for gallantry in action by leading only a few soldiers that had survived an attack to overtake and capture a group of enemy soldiers. Russ was always very humble about the honor but also very proud of the accomplishment.

Russ was a lifelong member of the LDS church and served honorably in many callings. He lived a life of honor and integrity and always strived to be fair, loyal, trustworthy and reliable. Mission accomplished!

Russ married Carol Moon in 1950 and had four children together. He later married his High School sweetheart, Jean DeGarmo Florence and spent many enjoyable years by her side before she preceded him in death in 2011. 

Russ is also preceded in death by his son Bradley and is survived by his children; Gary & Sid Mears, Rick & Lezli Mears, Trent & Cynthia Mears. He leaves behind 6 grandchildren Kacee Kraczek (Jon), Riley Mears, Jonny Mears (Hailey), Haley Mears, Madison Collier, Bailee Collier, & Jaime Mears. He leaves behind 3 Great Grandchildren Tayah Oram, Sean Mears, & Cody Mears

A viewing will be held at Russon Brothers Mortuary 1941 N. Main Street, Farmington on Sunday May 7th from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Interment and Graveside service to be held Monday, May 8th 11:00 am at Lakeview Memorial Cemetery 1640 E Lakeview Dr. Bountiful.