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Perry Bradford Obituary
St. George
April 24, 1958 - November 2, 2012
Perry Dean Bradford passed away on November 2, 2012, from natural causes. Perry was born April 24, 1958 in Salt Lake City, Utah to James (Duke) and Shirley Lou Bradford.
Perry graduated from West High School in 1976 where he received many prestigious awards for sports. He received the Hal Brinton Award, West High's Most Hatchets Award, and was awarded the Deseret News and Salt Lake Tribune MVP in 1975 for football. He was on the West High Football and Basketball State Championship teams and set a new school record for pole vault. He received a full-ride scholarship to BYU in football.
He married, Suzanne Ryel and later divorced. Together they raised two children, Brooke Ann and James Cole Bradford.
Perry was well known for starting and running the successful Desert Palms Gym in St. George, Utah for over 20 years. He was Mr. Utah in 1991. Perry was a true optimist and had tremendous energy. He loved sports and was driven to succeed in whatever he put his mind to. He made friends easily and everyone loved him.
Perry is survived by his children, Brooke Ann Bradford and James Cole Bradford, his parents, James (Duke) and Shirley Lou Bradford, Sister Marilyn (Richard) Nelson, Sister Nancy (Ralph) Little, Sister Colleen (Steve) Van Norman, Brother Daniel James (Kathleen) Bradford and many nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, November 8th, at 12:00PM, Monument Park First Ward 1005 South 2000 East, Salt Lake City, Utah. Family will be greeting friends one hour prior to services. A Celebration of His Life will be held Saturday, November 10th, at 1:00 PM, The Ledges, 1585 Ledges Parkway, St. George, Utah.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Perry Bradford
Dan Stuart
October 31, 2024
Our good buddy Perry has been gone a while now but his memory still lives on. Sometime I would recruit Perry to come help me at a trade show, especially if it was in a cool area. He and Suz came with me to Hawaii one time and Suz and my ex wife Cindy worked a punch needle I was selling and Perry and I worked the Vitamix. It was a fun trip, we mixed a little work with lots of fun. Another time I had a show in Ft. Lauderdale and Perry wanted to tag along and we planned a trip to the Bahamas right after the show. Flying from Ft. Lauderdale to the Bahamas was cheap so we figured we would make a short dive trip out of it. We took one day and hung out at Miami Beach and our Hotel had Shuffle Board. Neither Perry nor I really knew how to play but T we asked a couple of older guys a few question and the next thing you know we were betting against each other. These old guys asked if we wanted to play against them and we figured why not we would learn a few things. Within minutes Perry wanted to wager on each game figuring it would be easy to beat these guys in their 80´s. We were both down $100 before we knew it. These guys were quite good at this game and we were totally out matched. I´m glad we only stayed at that hotel one night or I would have came home broke. That trip with Perry was a blast. Perry talked me into a few dive trips and all were rememberable.
Dan Stuart
October 31, 2023
In 1991 Perry trained for the Mr. Utah Bodybuilding contest heavyweight division and took first place in his division. These are photos I took of him practicing posing a few days before the contest. He worked very hard to get into this condition. Not only did he lift like crazy but was on a very strict diet for several weeks if not months. I was fortunate to be able to watch his transformation during this time. All of his family and friends were very proud of him for this accomplishment. Rest in peace buddy. Love you. Dan Stuart
Lloyd Eldredge
November 14, 2012
I played with Perry at BYU and against him in High School. He was always a winner, and tough competitor. I cannot believe that he is gone. My sympathies to his family.
Diane Philbrick Campbell
November 13, 2012
Oh my gosh! I just saw this, what a shock to see. I am very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
November 12, 2012
wow what a shock, life is very short. I am so sorry and sad. I met Perry about 4 years ago through my brother in law steve reiter in Montana. We played in many pro am golf tournaments and had great times. A few years ago Suzie and Perry showed up at our cabin on flathead riding their harley's and looking good. Later My wife, kids and I all packed up and went home and the Bradfords stayed, they had a great time. I found out that Perry went to high school with my sister in law Sherri (Savelkoul) Porch. small world. Perry touched many lives and will be missed by all. Perry your Montana friends love you. Dan Porch
Dan Stuart
November 12, 2012
I love this man. We had a 29 year friendship. He made me do things I would have never done unless I had known him. Our many scuba diving trip, our many houseboat trips, waterskiing, snow skiing, basketball, ping-pong, racquetball, you name it we did it. He made my life so much better. He touched many of us in so many ways. I will miss him dearly. I can't wait to see him on the other side. I love you brother.
Kumen Jones
November 11, 2012
Couple three weeks ago Perry called and pretended he was with the IRS, in town, and had been assigned to audit my 2010 returns. Then he came clean, and said "No, no, this is your cousin Perry". We talked about our Grandma Bradford, kids, siblings, our parents, and surprise! a few hunting stories. It was an enjoyable uplifting bit of catching up. Point is, he thought to reach across decades to reconnect, so he flat did. Most of us could use and do more of that. Perry spoke fondly of his family. My heart goes out them. Uncle Duke and Aunt Shirley, we all love. Thank you Perry for the call!
Stacey Tew McArthur
November 10, 2012
Perry and I went to West High together and I was shocked and saddened to hear of his passing..My heart goes out to his family.
KC Christensen
November 10, 2012
Grew up in Portland, Oregon with Suzie. Perry and Suzie married at my folks place in Portland. Perry and I were DBs together at BYU football team. I remember the Scout 4x4 he drove. I still think in was a pink color. Never understood it? Fishing near his trailer on Summer days there in Provo. Skiing up at Snowbird with his spaedman bindings and "the skis" rig he was so proud of. Would see him in St. George from time to time. Golf, fast cars, hunting you name it he was doing it. I often said to him he should of been a Dentist with all the trading out he did with his gym memberships ;-). Perry you were bigger than life it self my friend that left a lasting impression of how to live life to the fullest.............. We will miss you buddy.
Michelle Snook
November 10, 2012
How did we get to be so lucky to have known Perry? Was thinking about how many lives he touched with that electric smile of his....he touched mine for sure.
Patti Pueblo-Byrd
November 9, 2012
So sad to hear about your loss of Perry. What a life to be proud of. So many good memories from West High School and Rose Park. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this challenging time.
Jill Lefler Iverson
November 8, 2012
So Sorry to hear about Perry's passing and quite stunned. What a superior athlete with a great smile. He made West High School proud. Dupont Avenue was great times back in the day which all that lived on that great street or around will remember. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this difficult time.
November 8, 2012
I was saddened and shocked upon learning of Perry's passing. He was truly a gifted athlete and an all around great guy. Way to young to exit this life. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Bradford family at this most difficult time. Sincerely, Nancy Olsen Mayhew
Mike Pueblo
November 8, 2012
Saddend to hear of Perry's Passing.Remembering All the good times on Dupont Ave. My thoughts and Prayers are with the Bradford Family
Max Doane
November 8, 2012
I was very saddened to hear that Perry has passed away. One of my most vivid memories with Perry is driving along I-15 in his gold Ford Mustang while trying to hang on to the long pole for his pole vault competition, as we traveled to the state track meet at Weber State. Many of us share fond memories of the wins and losses from the years of playing sports together. His enthusiasm and energy will be profoundly missed, and I am sincerely sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in your many fond and cherished memories with Perry.
Julie Ray
November 8, 2012
I am so sorry to hear about Perry..I worked as an aerobics instructor for Desert Palms several years ago... he was a great guy!
Guy Yocom
November 8, 2012
I'm so sorry for the Bradfords for their loss. That goes for everyone who knew Perry. He was a unique, unforgettable person, the product of a great family. everyone who came in contact with him was better for the experience.
Spence Christensen
November 8, 2012
I have fond memories of Perry as a friend and teammate. He gave me encouragement at times when I really needed it. He made me a better player and a better person.
Linda
November 8, 2012
I will always remember Perry's sweet smile and teasing me while growing up in Rose Park. He brought good times to West Hight sports and he will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with your family. My the Lord bless you through this rough time.
Love ya,
Linda Spilker Defa
November 8, 2012
I will always have fun memories of Perry growing up together. From his sweet smile to his teasing me in our younger years. I will never forget the good times at West High and the wins he brought the our school years. May you find comfort and peace at this time of need, and my the Lord bless your family.
Love ya, Linda Spilker Defa
Rob Watkins
November 7, 2012
Perry was one of the most positive and energenic people I have ever met. I worked with Perry at his first gym in St. George,Nautilus Plus, we became good friends and I was always amazed at his "can do" attitude. His positive outlook was contagious, his work ethics were incredible, I will really miss him.
Affra, Dennis, Norine, Paul, Marilyn Families
November 7, 2012
Dear Bradford Family--We are so sad to hear of the passing of Perry. Our association with the Bradford family has been very special, filled with love and respect.
November 7, 2012
Dear Aunt Shirley, Uncle Duke, and Family:
I was so shocked to hear of Perry's passing! What a great cousin - so full of fun and life. I know you will miss him so much. My prayers are with you all. I wish I could be there tomorrow!
Love and prayers,
Margie
Bryan Pack
November 7, 2012
We only knew Perry for a short time. He was a great neighbor, and friend. He was always up for telling us a good story! Our son Mason would come home from Perry's with a new antler and a bag of candy (the highlight of his day). He will be missed in Alpine, Wyoming for sure. Rest in peace friend...Bryan, Ami, Mason & Wyatt Pack
Michael Vlamakis
November 7, 2012
I would like to offer my sincere condolances to the Bradford family.Perry was a fierce competitor and a true friend.Will never forget the many battles we fought together as teamates from little league thru high school and the frienship that remained after.
Dennis Bradford
November 7, 2012
Uncle Duke and Aunt Shirley, we are so sorry to hear of Perry's passing. Our thoughts, prayers and love go out to you and your family.
Dennis and Lisa Bradford
Julie Matthews
November 7, 2012
So sorry to hear the news about Perry. I worked out at Desert Palms in St. George every day and Perry always had a big smile and was kind to all. He will be missed. God Bless you all.
Nora Cooke
November 7, 2012
I worked for him and went to the gym he was a very nice guy sad to see him go so young .
Cathy (Edwards) Beckstead
November 7, 2012
I was stunned when I received the news of Perry's passing. He is much too young. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.
Judd
November 7, 2012
Dear Bradfords, I'm sorry not to be with you today. You are in my prayers. Bless you for bringing your son/brother/husband/dad into the world and sharing him with the rest of us to smile and laugh with and to envy for his fearless approach to life. In every memory I have of Perry he is smiling. My minds eye still sees his smile. My mind's ear still hears his laugh. I was trying to describe Perry to my wife yesterday after I heard of his passing. I said: "Do you remember that character Brad Pitt played in A River Runs Through It?" Brad Pitt had nothing on Perry. My memories of Perry run from watching him and a proud Duke after Perry hit his first home run, at age 10!, through many other experiences with he and your family to his manhood. Like you I will keep his memory in my heart and it will always make me smile. We will laugh with him again. My love to you all.
Steve Herring
November 7, 2012
I played football with Perry at BYU back in 1977. If I remember correctly he drove a red Int. Scout. Always a real good guy with smile on his face. My condolences to his family, I'm sure he will missed.
November 6, 2012
Uncle Duke, Aunt Shirley & family, So sad to hear this news. My love and prayers.
-Mona Kaye
Hazel Honey
November 6, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with your family. I will miss Perrys smile and encouragement, always making me feel better just talking to him. He was a great man who loved life and the outdoors. He often told me of his love for his family, his thanks to his father for his love and teaching him to fish and hunt. He said he was the man he had become because of the example of his father. He was proud of Cole and Brooke and loved them very much. Perry will be missed by all but his spirit will always be near.
Joe Killpack
November 6, 2012
As sad as hearing this makes me, I can't help but smile remembering all of the great memories of Perry. We met playing football for Rose Park as teenagers and became friends as team mates at West. Good bye old friend!
Diane Simister Morrell
November 6, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with the Bradford family at this time. I remember growing up with Perry and going all through elementary, junior high and high school with him. And then even going on to BYU and running into him there. He was always friendly, kind, and a true athlete.
Derek & Kathryn Peterson
November 6, 2012
Perry always had a kind word to say and a smile on his face! You always found laughter in the room when he was around! You will be greatly missed Mr. Bradford, the world has lost a great man! Our deepest condolences go out to his family.
Katie Zimmerman
November 6, 2012
Perry, you will be missed!! I remember thinking you where the strongest man in the world when I was little.
Robert Bradford
November 6, 2012
Uncle Duke, Aunt Shirley, I am so sorry to learn of Perry's passing. I love and miss you. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I still remember your family taking me and Toni to Lagoon, a very fond memory for me...I always admired Perry and wish that I could have known him better but what a great man me was. Love you all!!
Randy Bradford
November 6, 2012
Uncle Duke and Aunt Shirley our most sincere condolences to you and family for your loss love you all.
Pamela Strong
November 6, 2012
So sad, I worked at the gym years ago and he was wonderful. Perry you will be missed.
Gil Ruiz
November 6, 2012
To the family, my sincerest condolences. Perry was bigger than life and a dear friend. I will miss our phone calls.
Corey Pace
November 6, 2012
Perry was a great BYU brother in the Band of Brothers back in 1976.
Robbie Bosco
November 6, 2012
My thoughts and prayers go out to Perry's family and friends. Once a Cougar always a Cougar!!
November 6, 2012
Perry, Always bigger than life, we will miss your smile and encouragement. Fly with the eagles, Dorene & Clifford
Rick Florez
November 6, 2012
Perry was a GREAT KID and a very gifted athlete. He was team leader and inspiration to his teammates.
Dale and Mary Jones
November 6, 2012
Dear Uncle Duke and Aunt Shirley,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
If I'm remembering correctly, Perry left us about the same age as his Grandpa Bradford.
It's obvious that his Grandpa would have been very proud of Perry.
We love you,
Dale and Mary Jones
Beau Hunt and family
November 6, 2012
Perry Bradford: you made a real difference in my life. You gave me my start. You gave me responsibility and you expected me to succeed. Thank you for that. Your influence will forever be felt.
To the Bradford family Perry lived a BIG life and he inspired mine!
There will be a big void in his absence. I am sorry for your loss.
Beau Hunt an family
November 6, 2012
Perry Bradford: You made a real difference in my life. You gave me my start. You gave me responsibility and you expected me to succeed, thank you for that. Your influence will be forever felt.
To the Bradford family: Perry lived a BIG life and he inspired mine!
There will be a big void in his absence. I am sorry for your loss.
al stedman
November 6, 2012
miss your smile.al midtown
Roger Graves
November 6, 2012
Perry was a gifted athlete and the consummate competitor. From playing sandlot baseball to driveway basketball to sandlot football on Dupont Avenue in Rose Park, to more organized football, basketball and track & field endeavors in high school and college, Perry always strived to be the best -- and he usually was! Perry's zest and zeal for sports was eclipsed only by his love of life. Perhaps someone should read "An Ode to an Athlete Dying Young" by Houseman at Perry's services, since this is certainly a case of a gifted athlete passing far too soon. We extend our deepest condolences to the entire Bradford family and look forward to playing a little one-on-one or H-O-R-S-E with Perry on heaven's basketball court some day.
-- Roger Graves & Family.
Joe Powers
November 6, 2012
Perry was a super athlete back in the day and being Mr. Utah did not surprise me at all. i was shocked to hear of his passing for the fact he was so fit physically he would out live most people. i remember his incredible athletic feats in football and track as a sophomore and i only wished he would have tried out for wrestling he would have been a champ in that sport as well. My condolences to the family, he will be missed greatly. Rest in peace my friend.
November 6, 2012
To the Bradford Family: We are so sorry of your loss of your sweet Son, Dad, Brother & Uncle. No words can express the deep sympathy we feel for you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very sad time.
Love, Craig & Denise Brinkerhoff - St. George, UT
Randy Schreiter
November 6, 2012
The summer of 75 was quite an experience. As a incoming freshman Perry took me under his wing and thumb! I will always be grateful for this experience.
Tom Dickerson and Family
November 6, 2012
He was the Man. He lived it too. Way to young. Hadn't seen him in years. The pictures tell it all. Full of fun and laughter.
He will be getting everyone fit upstairs.
God Bless
Madeline Pappas Coleman
November 6, 2012
To the Family and Friends,
What a sad and terrible loss to everyone. Perry was one of the most talened and best guys I have ever known. His energy and life will be missed by all of us. He added so much to the sports world and his dedication to every thing he had accomplished in his life. West High Schoool can never forget him.
Angie Fleck & Family
November 6, 2012
To the Bradford Family:
We are deeply saddened to learn of Perry's death. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Marilee Fetterman
November 6, 2012
To The Bradford Family,
Life can be so short, and having Perry leave this Earth so soon just proves it. My deepest thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Thank you for letting me be a part of your family years ago. I've been blessed and those who have come in contact with Perry during his life have been blessed.
Love,
Bruce Baxter
November 5, 2012
Quite a shock. Perry was the patient jock who always took some time to explain the game to the guys who were clueless, particularly me. One of the greatest natural athletes to ever play for West High. He will be missed.
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