Russell Owen Garland

August 31, 1932 – June 26, 2015

Russell O. Garland passed away peacefully at his home in the morning hours of June 26, 2015. He was 82 years old and a resident of the Santa Clarita Valley for 46 years.

Russell was born in Detroit, MI. on August 31, 1932 to Homer and Martha (Owen) Garland. Later the family moved to the small town of Pittsford, MI. where Russell graduated from Pittsford Rural Agricultural School in 1950. Russell attended college briefly before enlisting in the United States Air Force in 1951. He was assigned to the 1350th Photographic Group and spent most of his enlisted time stationed at Elmendorf AFB in Anchorage, Alaska. He received an honorable discharged in 1955 at the rank of Airman 1st class.

While stationed at the Lockheed Air Terminal in Burbank, CA, Russell met Patricia J. Jessome of Torrance, CA on a blind date. They were married on November 7, 1953. She was the love of his life and together they raised two children. They were married for 61 years until her passing in 2014.

Russell used his photographic skills during a long career in the film and television industry. He worked his way up to the position of Optical Cameraman and worked for several studios including Universal Studios before retiring in 1994.

A man of many interests and abilities, Russell enjoyed reading, bicycling, motorcycling, and target shooting. An avid and skillful horseman, Russell was a member of the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Reserve Posse for over 30 years. With his horse Cotton, he volunteered his time searching for missing persons and riding with the Mounted Color Guard in the annual Newhall 4th of July parade.

Russell was a caring son, loyal brother, devoted husband, dedicated loving father and grandfather, and a friend to many. He will be remembered for his outgoing personality, sense of humor and willingness to help others. He is survived by his daughter Gloria Garland (Jon Bock) of Oakhurst, CA. son Steven Garland (Susan) of Santa Clarita, CA. granddaughters Stephanie Robinson (Daniel) and Shawna Garland of Santa Clarita, CA. and his sister Dorothy Towne (Duane) of Pittsford, MI. He was predeceased by his wife Patricia Garland and brother David Garland of Lakewood CO.

Funeral Services will be held Friday August 14, 2015 1pm at Eternal Valley Memorial Park, Chapel of the Hills 23287 N. Sierra Hwy, Newhall, CA 91321.