Russell Johnson's Obituary

My cousin Russell Orlyn Johnson died on January 23, 2025.  It was such a shock, but apparently he had been suffering since his massive stroke.  There will be a Celebration of Life for him on February 9, 2025.

Born October 4th, 1956 to Norine Mortensen and Orlyn Johnson, Russell Orlyn Johnson was a one-of-a-kind man whose humor and wisdom left an indelible mark on all who knew him. Russell’s heart was as big as his personality. He was fiercely charitable, always looking for ways to improve the lives of those around him. From helping a struggling friend to organizing community projects, Russell’s kindness was felt by many. He had a knack for creating meaningful connections and finding ways to uplift others, no matter the circumstances.

A lover of the outdoors, Russell found peace and inspiration in the mountains. He was an avid photographer with a gift for capturing the beauty of the world around him. Whether it was through a simple photograph, a shared conversation, or a quiet moment in nature, Russell had a way of finding meaning in simplicity.

His family was the center of his world. Russell was a devoted husband, a loving father, a loyal brother, and an adoring grandfather. He cherished the time he spent with his loved ones and made sure they always knew how much he cared. Even in the face of challenges later in life, Russell’s love and humor remained a constant. The phrase “I love you” came effortlessly to him, a reflection of his deep affection for those he held dear. Russell’s legacy of kindness, love, and laughter will be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know him. 

Russell is survived by his wife Cara, daughter Selma (Rich), sons Jason (Amy), Jeremy (Frances), and Nick, and grandchildren (Izzy, Millie, William, and Maya). He is also survived by his siblings Denise, Marie, Orleen, and Lloyd and his many beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his loving mother Norine, father Orlyn, and brother Daniel.

In lieu of flowers, we ask you make a donation to https://thestrokefoundation.org/. We would like to thank the staff at St. Marks ARC and Intermountain Neuro Therapy Services for their love, support, and dedication to Russell’s recovery.

To honor Russell, please give one last WHOOOOOOOAAAA as loud as you can!

Birthday Lunch for Keith and I from Jamie and Dusty!

Today, January 29, 2025, we had lunch at the Cheesecake Factory in Murray, after Keith's appointment with Dr. Rastogi his Neurologist.  There was no wait at all for a table.  Unfortunately, we were seated right by the waiter station.  We felt like the servers and waiters were staring at us the whole time.  Keith was super annoyed and feeling pretty miserable.  

I enjoyed my Chicken Costeletta and then ordered my free piece of cheesecake to take home with us.  The waiter was kind and brought me a little ice cream treat as a little birthday surprise.  I was relieved that they didn't sing to me!  So grateful for Jamie and Dusty treating us to lunch for our birthdays!

Keith's Nerve Stimulator Surgery

On Monday, January 27, 2025, we saw Dr. Joshua Shepherd and he installed a nerve stimulator on Keith's back.  This is phase 1.  It goes for one week and then they will remove it on Friday.  Then after the insurance paperwork goes through, Keith will continue with Phase 2, nerve stimulator for the lower back. If these prove to be helpful and give him some nerve stimulation, they will insert it in his back permanently.  We are hopeful and we are anxious for the results.

We are hoping that Phase 2 will be successful and we can do it soon.

Russell Johnson has passed away!

My cousin Russell Johnson passed away on January 22, 2025.  Russell had a stroke about a year ago and he has tried really hard to come back to his old self.  Unfortunately, he contracted pneumonia and passed away.  

Russell and I have always been close.  He and I were the same age in school.  He was always trying to set me up with his friends.  When Skyler passed, Russell was there.  When my dad passed, Russell was there.  When Russell met his wife Cara, he called me and told me he had found his future wife.  He was so happy.  Russell was the father of three children.  A set of twin boys and a daughter.  He will truly be missed.  I went through pictures tonight and had some good memories of Russell.

In 1973, Russell traveled with us to New Mexico to visit my Aunt Bessie.  This picture is of Karleen, me, Little Pete, and Russell.  We thought it was so funny to see a "Go Home Hippies" sign.  We also went to the Santa Fe Race Track to see the horse races.  There will be a celebration of life on February 9, 2025.  Rest in Peace Dear Cousin!

Hayward Wride Passed Away...

Charles Hayward Wride, age 92, passed away at home on January 15, 2025 surrounded by his family. Hayward was born on October 5, 1932, to Elwyn and Margaret Wride in American Fork, UT, the third of six children.  

Hayward had a happy childhood and learned the value of hard work at a young age. He had a newspaper route and had many other jobs as a young boy and teenager. He did well in school and was always helpful at home. He graduated from American Fork High School and later from Brigham Young University, where he earned a degree in Marketing and a MS degree in Geography. 

Throughout his life he loved taking road trips and especially taking shortcuts, which often took much longer. Hayward had an excellent memory and had a wealth of knowledge about Utah and places all over the world.

Hayward served active duty in the military as a Captain in the US Air Force between the Korean and Vietnam Wars. In the spring of 1960, he met his beloved wife Shirley at BYU. They were married in the Salt Lake Temple on August 31, 1960. They were married for 64 years. They were blessed with 3 children, 11 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.

He worked for the Forest Service and later as a financial advisor for many years. His clients trusted him because of his honesty and integrity and knowledge of investing in the Stock Market.

Hayward was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and found joy in serving and ministering to the members of his ward. He served as a missionary in the California Mission and later with his beloved wife in the England London Mission.

Hayward is survived by his wife, Shirley Wride, his children, Douglas (Sue) Wride, Crystal (Conrad) Jenson, and Darcy (Kellie) Wride. Hayward was preceded in death by his parents, Elwyn and Margaret Wride, and his siblings, Bert Wride, Evan Wride and Afton Wright and 2 angel great grandchildren.

Hayward's life was a testament of his love for Jesus Christ and his family. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Ready for Valentine's Day...

I decided it was time to put up the Valentine's decor after Jamie sent me pictures of her house all decorated nice.  January is such a blah month - I figured Valentine's decor can brighten up a mood.

Pleasant View South Stake Women's Conference 2025

On Thursday, January 16, 2025, we enjoyed an evening of Music with Casey Elliott.  Casey has been in many Christmas shows on the Great American Family Channel, the Chosen, (the temple film), and numerous movies, as well as the lead singer in the Gentlemen Trio "Gentri."  

Casey grew up in a very musical family.  His parents were in an 80's Rock Band.  He was always surrounded by music.  Casey's wife Zerelda accompanied him and shared her testimony.   Casey explained that they met at Weber State University Institute.  He was on the Institute Council and Zerelda got up to speak.  He said all he could do was look at the tall yellow stilettos and knew he wanted to date her.  He asked her out at least 5 times before he realized that she worked everyday at the Joseph Smith Memorial Building.  He realized that it is closed on Sunday, so he called her one Sunday to see if she would like to hang out.  She was playing games with her family (she is one of 14 children).  Her sister was in labor and they were trying to keep her company until it was time to go to the hospital.  She told Casey, "I guess you can come and hang out with us."  He said, "I'll be right there..." 

He said when he arrived, he thought it looked like a ward activity.  There were so many people! LOL. They were inseparable the next 7 days and they got engaged!  They are the parents of 4 children, their son is currently serving a mission in Germany.  

Casey sang 4 or 5 songs and I was so impressed with his talent.  I actually went up and met him and he gave me a hug.  It was a special evening.

Keith's 67th Birthday!

January 14, 2025, Keith celebrated his 67th birthday!  Rebel and I made him a cake, Wilma and Vance brought many treats (chocolate chip cookies, Mrs. Cavanaugh's carmelcorn and coconut candies).  They gave him a nice card.  Keith had physical therapy, so he rested when he got home.  We had salad, pizza, and garlic bread from Ogden Pizzaria and then we had pie (Becky Cragun brought) from Maddox and German Chocolate cake.  It was a nice night.

Keith's Retirement Gift

Keith officially retired on December 31, 2024.  His boss Rick visited us today on his birthday and presented him with the framed letter from the First Presidency of the Church.  He also brought a card signed by Keith's co-workers, peppermint bark, and a book by Elder Uchtdorf.  I am proud of Keith and his career with the church.

Braxton Kyle Preece Turns 19!!!

Saturday, January 4, 2025, Braxton Kyle Preece turned 19!  Crazy!  I can't believe how fast time has flown.  I wish we were there to celebrate Braxton's birthday.  He is an amazing young man.  We love him so much and we are proud of him.  I know Skyler would be proud of him too.

I pray that Skyler will keep watch over him as he tries to navigate this experience we call life.

Happy New Year - Goodbye 2024, Welcome 2025

New Year's Eve 2024...

I got up and went to the grocery store and the Credit Union.  I made banana bread and did some meal prep.  I visited with Jodi Shupp; she brought some candied almonds and potpourri and a nice card.  And a Happy New Year Headband to wear.  We had a nice visit.  I promised that I would send her a picture of me wearing it.

Steve Meredith stopped by with some Chex mix wishing us a Happy New Year!

I did some laundry and sent some Happy New Year texts.  I played with the dog outside until it got too cold.  I made homemade chicken noodle soup for our dinner.  Keith and I played Kismet and had some snacks and rang in the New Year.  I am praying that 2025 will bring better health for Keith and I and that we will be able to enjoy some adventures in our retirement.  I also pray that my family will be healthy and happy.