Russell Gwynne Gillard

Russell Gwynne Gillard, age 75, passed away peacefully at home on March 10, 2026 surrounded by family. He was born on July 21, 1950, in Denver, Colorado, the second child of David H. and Vera A. Gillard.

Russ graduated from Berlin Heights High School (Ohio), class of 1968, where he wrestled, played football and baseball, and was Vice President of his class. Russ remained active in the alumni community throughout his life.

Following graduation, Russ attended General Motors Institute (Kettering University). In 1972, he married his best friend and the love of his life, Cynthia Bruns. After beginning his early career in Flint, Michigan, Russ relocated to Mesa, Arizona, where he excelled in his career at the GM Desert Proving Grounds. While living in Arizona, he went on to earn his master’s degree in engineering/industrial management from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 1994.

Russ was a passionate advocate for cancer research and received the St. George National Award from the American Cancer Society in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the fight against cancer. He regularly traveled to Washington, D.C., to advocate for cancer research funding.

Russ also served as President and founding board member of the Foundation for Mesa Parks and Recreation. One of his proudest accomplishments during his tenure was helping lead the groundbreaking of the Red Mountain Multi-Generational Center.

He was an active member of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity and served the organization in various leadership capacities for more than 50 years.

Russ will be remembered for living his life with purpose and humility. His sense of humor was ever present, and he had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcome and included. Whether playing softball or enjoying a round of golf, Russ embraced life with energy and enthusiasm.

Russ’ proudest accomplishment was his family and his enduring love for Cynthia.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Cynthia of Mesa; daughter Kimberly Palen-McBee (Heath) of Washington; and son Ryan (Tiffany) of California. His legacy lives on through his grandchildren Sophie, Aleka, and Cullan Palen-McBee, and Paisley and Weston Gillard.

He is also survived by his sister Cheryl Steris of Ohio; brothers David (Joan) Gillard of Virginia and Doug (Ana) Gillard of New York; sisters-in-law Susan (Ron) Smith and Sarah (Terry) Beck of Ohio; and three nieces and five nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Vera, in 2002, and his father, Dave, in 1981.

Entering heaven 3 to one against cancer, per Russ’s wishes, no services will be held. Donations in honor of Russ may be made to the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, Live Like Lou at livelikelou.org/donate, or Hospice of the Valley.