Russell Craig Pool—beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend—passed away on December 8th, 2025, in Nampa, Idaho. Born August 3rd, 1946, in Salt Lake City, Utah, “Rusty” grew up in Montpelier, Idaho, where his bright red hair, boundless energy, adventurous spirit, and mischievous streak made him unforgettable from the very start.
Russ was the middle child of Wayne Forbes Pool and Anna Jo Roskelley, with an older brother, Richard, and a younger sister, Karen. After graduating from high school, he attended the University of Idaho in Moscow, then served faithfully in the New England States Mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Upon returning home, he continued his studies at Idaho State University, completing his pre-dental coursework.
Russ discovered a love for musical theater during his years at ISU. While performing in a production of Oklahoma!, he met the love of his life, Sylvia Ann Woolley. They were sealed in the Logan Utah Temple on October 10, 1969, beginning a marriage full of music, adventure, and deep devotion. Their first son, Trevor, was born soon after Russ completed his degree, and the young family moved to St. Louis, Missouri, where Russ attended Washington University School of Dental Medicine. While in St. Louis, their family grew again with the arrival of their daughter Brigette.
Following graduation from dental school, Dr. Pool served proudly in the United States Air Force. The Pools were stationed in Guam, where they endured a powerful typhoon and welcomed their third child, Darin. Russ later completed his military service in Mountain Home, Idaho, where their fourth child, Justin, was born.
In 1979, the family settled in Nampa, where Russ began his private dental practice. He quickly became known throughout the community not only as a skilled dentist but also as the dentist who sang—often serenading patients with a warm baritone that eased nerves and lifted spirits.
Russ and Sylvia welcomed a fifth child while living in Nampa. He passed away as an infant, just 4 days old.
Throughout his life, Russ was larger than life—loud, vivacious, adventurous, and endlessly energetic. He loved people fiercely and showed up wherever there was a need. A dedicated community servant and faithful member of his church, he especially loved Scouting. He organized and ran the Scouting for Food drive for more than 20 years, helping countless families in need.
Music remained a central thread in Russ and Sylvia’s life together. They sang in community productions, church choirs, and musical groups for decades, blessing thousands with their harmonies. After retiring from private practice, Russ continued serving others by working as a mobile dentist, visiting nursing homes and caring for elderly patients with compassion and dignity.
Russ loved being a grandpa to his 20 grandchildren. He traveled near and far to watch their sports games, concerts, and performances. He often sent heartfelt text messages of encouragement, humor, and affection.
A lifelong adventurer, Russ snorkeled, hiked, boogie-boarded, played soccer with grandkids, and never met a water slide he wouldn’t go down. He traveled to Japan and Australia to visit his children while they were living overseas, eagerly exploring every corner he could.
Russ was preceded in death by his parents, Wayne and Anna Jo; his brother, Richard; his infant son, Devin; and his daughter-in-law, Holli.
He is survived by his loving wife, Sylvia; his children Trevor (Heather), Brigette (Garrett) Helmer, Darin (Angie), and Justin (Erin); his sister Karen and sister-in-law Carol; and his 20 beloved grandchildren.
Russ lived life to the fullest. His booming laugh, infectious smile, generous spirit, and unmistakable zest for life will be deeply missed by his wife of 56 years, his children and grandchildren, and all who knew him.
Funeral services will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 7809 Deerflat Road, Nampa. The family will greet friends and relatives at Zeyer Funeral Chapel on Friday evening, December 12th, from 6 to 8 PM.