Dennis Darrell Russell

Dennis Russell, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother, passed away on January 12, 2026. He was born in Ogden, Utah on October 3, 1940 to Howard and Florence Russell. They raised Dennis in a loving home in Salt Lake City surrounded by family and friends. He was especially close to his sister, Shawna, his Grandma Ruby, and Uncle Darrell. After surviving polio as a child, Dennis went on to excel as a student at Highland High School and member of its golf team, from where he graduated in 1959 in its first graduating class. He studied at the University of Utah, became a Sigma Chi, and prepared for a career in medicine. He married the love of his life, Mary Lindsay, at the Salt Lake Temple in 1965 and went on to attend the University of Utah School of Medicine. He completed a medical residency through the University of Oregon and also served in the US Air Force at the Wright Patterson airbase in Dayton, Ohio. Dennis and Mary returned to Salt Lake to raise their four children, and he practiced Dermatology at the Salt Lake Clinic and its later affiliation with Intermountain Health.

Relationships were important to Dennis. He practiced medicine for over 30 years and was beloved by many of his patients and staff. He cared for patients and got to know them over time. He enjoyed running into them outside of work, and he almost always knew someone wherever he went. He was known for his generosity, kindness, and zest for life; his family, friends, neighbors, as well as strangers benefited greatly from these traits. Dennis enjoyed golfing, traveling, reading, and sports, particularly cheering for the Utes and Jazz. He was a strong supporter of the University of Utah.

Dennis loved his family unconditionally and made them his first priority. He constantly supported them in their activities and interests. Above all, he gave them his time. He adored his grandchildren.

A member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, his faith was important to him. He fulfilled various church callings throughout his life.

Dennis is survived by his wife, Mary, his sister, Shawna, and his four children: Mindy (Darryl), Ryan (Fatima), Lindsay (Chelsea), and Chris (Kristi). He is also survived by his seven granddaughters and two grandsons. His family will miss him very much.

The family wishes to thank Inspiration Hospice for their excellent care during Dennis’s last few weeks of life. They also wish to thank the many relatives, friends, and neighbors who provided support.

There will be a Celebration of Life and Viewing at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East Salt Lake City, Utah 84106 on Saturday, January 24, 2026 from 6:00 – 8:00 PM. Guests are encouraged to park on the north side of the building. Dennis’s burial will take place at Wasatch Lawns Memorial Park, 3401 Highland Drive Salt lake City, Utah 84106 on Monday, January 26, 2026 at 10:00 AM.