Russell J. Parsons

“A life filled with unselfish service will also be filled with peace that surpasses understanding.” Howard W. Hunter

Russell Parsons, age 91, passed away Sunday evening, June 12, 2016 in Salt Lake City. He was born June 23, 1924 in Creston, Iowa to Russell Glenn and Faye Huss Parsons. He graduated from Afton, Iowa public high school where he served as President of his Senior Class. Russ married Margaret Alyce Heaton on Jan 12, 1946 in Moccasin, AZ; they were later sealed in the St. George Temple on Jan 13, 1948.

A decorated veteran of World War II in the Normandy invasion and the Battle of the Bulge in Ardennes; Russ later served in domestic military operations during the Vietnam era. He retired from military service which included active duty, the Reserves and the National Guard with the rank of Lt Colonel. He served as President of the Reserve Officers Association, Salt Lake Chapter and had been a member of the VFW, Sugarhouse Post.

Russ retired from the US Postal Service as Safety Officer in Salt Lake and spent the last years of his postal career as Officer-in-Charge of the Tremonton and Sandy Utah post office operations. With his combined postal and military careers, Russ completed over 40 years of federal government service.

Upon retirement, Russ pursued his dream of getting a college education and graduated magna cum laude from the University of Utah. He enjoyed all sports, particularly college football and was an avid supporter of the Utes and a member of the Crimson Club. Russ contributed to youth development activities for several years as Scoutmaster and coached Little League and Babe Ruth League baseball.

Russ served his local community as a Civil Defense Coordinator, American Cancer Society volunteer, and Senior Center volunteer. He was also a volunteer Director and later President, of the Acorn Credit Union. He was an active member of the LDS faith, embracing all of his assignments with the Church. Russ’ greatest service was the care and devotion given to his sweetheart of nearly 70 years, Alyce who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his eldest son, Russell J. Parsons II [Rusty].

Russ is survived by his son Charles L. (Mari) Parsons, his daughter Margaret Parsons (Dennis) Gladwin, granddaughter Rita Monique Parsons, great grandson Cody James Parsons & sister-in-law Nora Heaton.

The family is grateful for all the extended family, friends and neighbors who sustained Russ and would like to express special thanks to Jim, Rosie, Connie & Leslie for their extended companionship and support to Russ following the recent loss of his beloved wife.

Viewing will be held Fri, June 17, from 6-8 pm at Wasatch Lawn Mortuary 3401 Highland Drive, Salt Lake. Graveside Memorial Service will be conducted Sat, June 18, at 11am at Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to VFW Post #3586, Ben G. Russo Post, 2920 S. Highland Dr, Salt Lake City, UT 84106