Russell Don Elwood

Russell D. Elwood graduated from this life on January 21 with his dear wife of 70 years, Joleen Chambers Elwood, by his side. He was 92 years old. Russell was born December 15, 1930, to Rosel H. Elwood and Myrel Bingham Elwood. He was the last surviving of eight siblings. He married his sweetheart on February 14th (Valentine’s Day) 1952. He joined the Utah National Guard from 1948 – 1952 and served in the war in Korea in 1952. He served his country honorably and was always very proud of his service and status as a Veteran. Russ was a patriot in every way. Russ and Joleen made their home in Smithfield, Utah and were blessed with four children. Russ valued the traditions of hard work and honesty and was a faithful member of the LDS Church serving in numerous callings during his life. He was the Ward Clerk for many years serving under eight Bishops. He was a frugal man who abhorred debt and always paid his way through life. He loved the rural life and was an avid outdoorsman. He loved riding and caring for horses, hunting, boating, fishing, and camping – all with his family. Russ and Joleen worked in retirement as camp hosts for the U.S. Forest Service at Tony Grove and at Red Fish Lake, Idaho for a total of eight years. For many years Russ knew everybody in Smithfield and was a friend to all. He was a devoted family man and raised his children teaching them to espouse the same strong values that he exemplified his entire life. He is survived by his wife Joleen Chambers Elwood (Smithfield), a daughter Jan (Dennis) Jones of Smithfield, a daughter Kami (Steve) Pehrson of Roosevelt, Utah, a son Scott (Christine) Elwood of Smithfield, and a son Troy Elwood of Smithfield, 14 grandchildren, and 16 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by twin grandchildren, Shane and Shantel Jones. His final year was filled with pain and suffering, but his faith and his love and devotion to his family never wavered. (The family is extremely grateful to Candice, his hospice nurse, for her kind and compassionate care provided to Russ in his final days.) Russ wanted everyone to know that “the old veteran has died”. He is to be entered at the Smithfield City Cemetery with full military honors.