Russell J. Taylor, 71

Russell J. Taylor joined God in Heaven on Aug. 17, 2024, at the age of 71. Russ was born Sept. 7, 1952, in Wallace, Idaho. He graduated from Coeur d’Alene High School in 1970. He then joined the U.S. Army and served for four years. Russ attended North Idaho College and earned a degree in surveying, which he used in his career with the U.S. Forest Service as a surveyor and other duties for most of his life. Russ received many Certificates of Appreciation from the Forest Service for his outstanding efforts and contributions to managing the preservation of the forests in North Idaho. 

Russ spent much of his time exploring the beautiful countryside and mountains throughout the Northwest. He enjoyed hiking, picking huckleberries, camping, fishing and just communing with nature. He had a great respect for nature and all it had to offer.  

Russ was a member of the Church of Christ in Sandpoint, Idaho, and Hope, Idaho. His love for God, family and the members of his church was immense. He was a kind soul and loved helping others, which was demonstrated in his service to this country, his family, his church and his community, as he was a regular bell ringer for charity during the holidays. He enjoyed time with his family and his friends from church. Everyone Russ came in contact with loved him dearly, and he will be missed by all the people whose lives he touched.

He is preceded in death by his father, John Taylor, and sister Julie Oliver. He is survived by his mother, Anita Taylor; siblings Lynn (Karl) Ploetzner, Gail (Tim) Randall, Mitch (Desi) Taylor and many loving nieces and nephews.  

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2024, at Yates Funeral Home, 373 E. Hayden Ave., Hayden, Idaho. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Hospice of North Idaho (www.hospiceofnorthidaho.org) in Russ’s name. Please visit Russ’s online memorial and sign his guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.