Russell Roy Poole Jr. passed away on March 2, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on December 24, 1947, in Concordia, Kansas, Russ was one of nine siblings. As a young child, he moved to Star, Idaho, where he was raised and built the foundation of his life.
Russ attended Eagle Junior High and Meridian High School, where he was a standout athlete in multiple sports. His talent and dedication earned him the All-American Award in football, an honor given to only 100 athletes nationwide. He also held the 110-meter-highurdles record until 1987. His athletic success led him to a full-ride scholarship to Boise Junior College, where he continued to pursue his passion for sports and education.
In 1980, Russ married his soulmate, Kathy Poole, and together they created a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments. Russ dedicated his professional career to Associated Foods, where he served as the Perishables Supervisor. Beyond his work, his greatest joy was spending time with his family and friends, a passion that defined his life.
Russ was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, son, uncle, father[1]in-law, friend, mentor, coach, and Child of God. To his grandchildren, he was invincible—a man of strength, hard work, toughness, and deep care for those he loved.
A celebration of Russ’s life will be held at Eagle Christian Church (casual dress as Russ would want it), 100 S. Short Road, Eagle, Idaho 83616, on Friday, March 7, at 1:00 P.M. The service will be held in the gymnasium through Door #2, with parking available in the main lot.
Russ was preceded in death by his parents and six of his siblings. He is survived by his soulmate, Kathy Poole; his daughter, Shelle Poole, and her husband, Steve; his son, Shayne Poole, and his wife, Tricia; his grandchildren, Matthew (RyAnna)Meacham, Ty (Hanna) Poole, Maddee Meacham, Jayce Poole and Jeremy Buttram, Kadyn Poole (Sower); his four great-grandchildren, Leo Meacham, Lincoln Poole, Lena Poole and Payton Poole; sisters Karen (Lloyd) Shields, Susan (Ken) Plager, and a loving community of family and friends.
Honorary Pallbearers: Shayne Poole, Steve Yoest, Matthew Meacham, Ty Poole, Jayce Poole, and Jeremy Buttram.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Eagle Christian Church Central Valley or your favorite organization.
Russ’s legacy is one of love, strength, and perseverance. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.