I was a missionary during the transition. My first week in the missionary home with our first FHE, I gave an eloquent message. He turned to me and said, “Elder Harward, are you going somewhere?” Apparently, I was giving a farewell address and I hadn’t  even started my mission.
A missionary president he was, but he was first and foremost,  a rascal!
We were shrubs amongst an oak. You too Dorthy; an oak; love to you and alll my missionary friends.


Pres. Russell was my Mission President in the Uruguay Paraguay Mission 1971-73. I am sorry to have not heard of his passing at that time. I told him at exit interview with him that I thought he would be a General Authority someday. I just learned of his calling to the First Quorum of the Seventy. I was so happy to hear of that calling, and saddened at his passing. We will see him again. That is my hope.

I was sorry to read of the passing of this great man.  His example has influenced my life for good during the past 41 years... from the minute I met him in the Carrasco mission home until the reunion we had a couple years ago.  He will always have my love and respect.  Congratulations on your "Promotion" Presidente Russell!!

I was sorry to hear about the passing of President Russell.  I had a lot of respect for him.  I watched the men walk on the moon from his home in Puerto Rico while I was serving as a missionary there. The family has been in my thoughts & prayers.  Craig Van Tassell  Kamas, Utah

President Russell had an invaluable influence for good in my life as I'm sure he did in the lives of many. I am forever grateful for his great example. May the Lord's blessings be with Dorothy and all of the family.

     We loved your dear husband, father and grandfather.  His example in our lives while we lived in Uruguay was profound, and served us well when Toney was called as mission president years later.
     We were touched that as time went by he continued to remember us with e-mails and even telephone calls.  It was impressive that he continued to write books and be actively involved in so many good causes right to the end. He epitomizes the words, "Well done thou good and faithful servant."
With our love, Wendy and Toney Bentley

I'm sorry for your loss.  He was a great mission president.

Gardner was an inspiration to the saints in Floida and his counsel was valued. We always remember his stories of Bufford, Wyoming from his youth, appreciate and his service in the Orlando Temple.

His humour personality and intellectual conversations will be sorely missed! Always a need he would figure out a way. He done a fine job with family as they all share the compassionate work with such love of people was always  Brother Russell, until we meet again.

Years ago in an airport line we heard a voice say, "Dorothy, we'll let this nice young man put a pink tag on our bag." In that random moment, he gave all of us a Christlike example on how to treat others. He is surely befriending many on his way to his new destination. Nevertheless, we will also miss his sparkle here!

Gardner Russell was one of those rare men who had a positive effect on all who came in contact with him. He always had a smile and a warm handshake for me, and I miss him already.

OBITUARY

Gardner H Russell

Born 12 AUGUST, 1920

Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park and Mortuary

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