Bruce Parley Hurst

Our beloved dad and grandpa, Bruce Parley Hurst, passed away peacefully on November 30, 2022 at age 90, just six weeks after the passing of his sweetheart Elaine.

Bruce was born January 30, 1932 in Blanding, Utah, to Parley Oscar Hurst and May Theda Young Hurst. He enjoyed a happy childhood, attending Blanding schools where he played on the basketball team, served as Student Body President, and also spent time working in his parents’ store, the Blanding Merc.

Upon graduation from San Juan High School, Bruce attended the University of Utah, eventually earning a degree in business management. His mission call was postponed due to the Korean War and he chose to enlist in the Navy where he served four years as an aerial photographer.

In 1953, Bruce married and was blessed with six wonderful children: Melinda, Jim, Kathy, Kent, Todd, and JoAnna. His family was always his top priority and he worked tirelessly to ensure they were cared for. Following his divorce, Bruce moved to Southern California where he later met the love of his life, Elaine Weidemeier. They married in Solvang, California in 1978 and were then sealed in the Salt Lake Temple. Bruce and Elaine also welcomed two children, Laura and Jason, to complete the family.

Bruce had a work ethic that was unmatched. His career path led to a 23 year tenure at Disneyland where he retired as Merchandise Manager. True to his nature, Bruce was busier than ever after his retirement, first in moving the family to Salem, Utah in 1994. Once settled, he filled his days devoting countless hours to his impressive garden, “honey-do” projects, church callings with Elaine, and of course, serving his family and neighbors. He was a faithful servant in the Gospel of Jesus Christ and shared his testimony and love for the Lord through his quiet, steadfast example.

Our sweet dad was known for his humble nature, dry humor, frequent acts of quiet service, and his talent for “puttering” around house and yard. He loved to be with his family and was a most beloved grandfather to many grandchildren. Bruce and Elaine spent most of their days together and after her passing, he couldn’t wait to be reunited with her again. Through his example, we learned what it means to cherish God and family above all else.

Bruce was preceded in death by his sweetheart, Elaine Hurst, his parents May Hurst, Parley Hurst, and a loving stepmother Agnes Hurst, his brother Merrill Hurst, son-in-law Larry Greenwood, and grandchildren Trent Hurst, Josef Greenwood and Sammy Greenwood. He is survived by his children, Melinda Greenwood, James Hurst (Debra), Kathy Cosby (Dennis), Kent Hurst (Elaine), Todd Hurst (Toni), JoAnna Hall (Randy), Laura Caler (Ben), and Jason Hurst (Paige), as well as many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Dorothy Merrell and sister-in-law Tish Carlson.

We will celebrate Dad’s life on Wednesday, December 7th at 11AM at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Knoll Park Building, 160 South 460 West, Salem UT, 84653. A viewing will be held just prior to the service, from 9:45AM to 10:45AM at the same address.

We love you, Dad! We will be forever thankful for the privilege of having you as our father and will strive to follow your example until we’re reunited again!