Details
About Joseph Russell
Joseph Russell, 87 passed away September 13, 2025 surrounded by loved ones. Joe will be remembered for his sense of humor and living a life of service to family and friends. He spent thirty-one years working for Salt River Project. He also served as a Marine Corps Reservist for 12 years. Joe attended Mesa High School, and is an alumni of Arizona State University. He loved to work in the Mesa Temple, and made many cherished friends there. Many years were spent as a private pilot. He was fortunate to own a plane for the last twenty-five years. He is survived by his wife Alta, and children Donna, Niles, Neil, Diana, JuDene, Chris, and Derrick; 30 grandchildren, 58 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great-grandchildren who love him very much.
Viewing will be October 1, 2025, 6-8pm
33 N Centennial Way, Mesa, AZ
Funeral service will be October 2, 2025 at 10am.
There will be a viewing prior to the service on October 2nd from 9:00 am to 9:30 pm.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
925 N Harris, Mesa, AZ 85203
Link for funeral broadcast:
Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
10 comments
Leslie Arnold
Joe had a unique combination of patience, a calming influence & a great sense of humor! Some of my favorite memories are going on family trips & amazing adventures, with Joe teaching us interesting things along the way (he was my stepdad when I was 10-15). He also gave me the greatest gift I cherish with all my heart: my sister, Diana.
I know he’s having quite the awesome family reunion & will wait patiently for all of us to return home. And I’m sure my dad gave him a big hug for the positive part Joe played in my life. Lastly, for some reason my nickname for him was “Jose can you see” & I can’t remember where it came from … it sounds totally Joe influenced though! Love you Joe
Deborah Andersen
uncle jo you will me missed I always enjoyed visiting with you at family reunions you where the best love you Deborah
Santiago and Adriana
My sincere condolences to you and your family. Wishing you strength, peace, and comfort as you remember and celebrate your father’s life. May his memory be a blessing and bring you comfort and peace.
John Joe
Ahéhee’ (pronounced “ah-HYEH-heh”) for your friendship. You welcomed me and my family. You will always have a special place in me and Felma’s (ny wife) heart. We will never forget our wonderful outing to Toadalena Trading Post. We laughed and shared one another’s walk with Christ. I will miss you always brother. Rest in peace dear friend.
Miles & Michelle Bryson
We loved working with Joe at the Mesa Temple every Saturday for the last 3-1/2 years- he was always such a joy to be around!
That old saying “Earth’s loss is Heaven’s gain” may sound corny … but it definitely applies in this case!
Kris Cummins
We are so sorry for your loss. If we can do anything don’t hesitate to call. You are in our prayers
Arleen Tolman
So sorry to hear this, Joe was always so special to me when I joined the Tolman family. Prayers to Alta and family
Keith Small
I love you Joe,
Hope you enjoy flying with the Eagles ,
As I know you will…
Your friend and mechanic
Carina Rojo
We had the honor of working for Mr.Russel. He always treated us with kindness, warmth, and love. Holding the whole family very close in our thoughts. “It’s so hard to forget someone who gave us so much to remember”-unknown
Judy Smith
I love you and I will miss you
( and your chili). Judy