James Merrill Rushforth

As James Merrill Rushforth (Jim) would say he was handsome, kind, gentle, and humble too. To his family he was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. He passed away peacefully in his home in Bountiful, UT on March 22, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

“Papa”, as his family likes to call him, was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, on July 16, 1930. He was the oldest child of “Goodly Parents”, Merrill Rushforth and Amy Areta Porter. He spent his childhood roaming the wilds of Centerville, Utah—cultivating a deep love for the outdoors that stayed with him throughout his life. From camping and horseback riding to fishing trips with family, he found joy and peace in nature and shared that passion generously with his family and friends.

Jim married the love of his life, Patricia Anne Elggren August 9th, 1954, in the Salt Lake City temple for time and all eternity. He proudly served his country and had a deep love for the freedoms and values it stands for. His sense of duty, honor, and patriotism were reflected not just in his service, but in the way he lived his life—with integrity, sacrifice, and gratitude.

He took those same attributes and applied them in all aspects of his life including his academic pursuits at the University of Utah and later his career as an accomplished Certified Public Accountant starting out at Tanner & Garrett CPA firm and working up to partner at Wiggins and Company. He took pride in his life work both professionally and personally.

Jim had a remarkable memory—he never forgot a name, a face, or a story, no matter how much time had passed. His sharp wit and sense of humor stayed with him to the very end, bringing laughter and light to those lucky enough to know him.

He lived his life by example. Whether it was a backyard water fight with grandkids, quietly serving a neighbor in need, or spending his time outdoors with the scouts, he led with love, humility, and kindness. Above all, Jim had a deep devotion to God and our Savior, Jesus Christ. His faith was his foundation and his guide, and he instilled those values in his family through the way he lived each day.

Jim was a quiet servant of the Lord. He served 4 missions with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He spent many years in scouting, achieving the Silver Beaver, and working with young men to teach them about the outdoors he loved so much.

He is preceded in death by his parents. Jim is survived and lovingly remembered by his sister Dorene Jones, and his eternal sweetheart, Patricia Anne Elggren. Together, Jim and Pat, in their 70 years of marriage on earth, built a beautiful life rooted in love, faith, and family—a love so deep and enduring, it’s the kind people dream of.

They were blessed with seven children: Denise (Jeff) Burnham, James (LeeAnne) Rushforth, David Rushforth, Debbie (Jeff) Twitchell, Garth (Annette) Rushforth, Marti (Andrew) Barker, and Mindi (Ken) Bender; 29 grandchildren; and an ever-growing number of great-grandchildren who adored their Papa.

Jim “Papa” Rushforth leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and joy. While he will be dearly missed, we take comfort knowing he is at peace, reunited with loved ones who have gone before. As Jim told his children, “I was born of goodly parents, loved my family, the Lord, and my country. I was faithful to the end.”

Jim’s family would like to give a special thanks to those angels on earth who helped take care of him in his last days. Renew Home Health and Hospice in particular Rhonda, Marina and Kathy. As well as Gus with Senergy Home Care. Thank you for the love and care you gave our Papa!

The viewing will take place on Sunday, March 30, 2025, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at Russon Mortuary, 295 N. Main St., Bountiful, UT 84010. A second viewing will be held on Monday, March 31, 2025, from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m. at the Dry Creek Ward Building, 720 E. 550 N. Bountiful, UT 84010. Followed by the Celebration of Life at 11:00 a.m.

Services will be streamed live on the Russon Mortuary Live Facebook page and on this obituary page. The live stream will begin about 10-15 minutes prior to the service and will be posted below.

In lieu of flowers and in accordance with Jim’s wishes please consider donating to the missionary department of The Church of Jesus of Christ of Latter-day Saints.