On Dec. 10, 2014, Modern Tire Dealer shared the sad news of Raynal Pearson's death with you. Pearson, founder of Pearson Tire Co., was one of the good guys, an unassuming man of integrity. His love for his family and fellow man remains inspiring, and guarantees he will be missed by many, many people. Here is Pearson's official obituary. -- Bob Ulrich
Jack Raynal Pearson (Aug. 27, 1927-Dec. 9, 2014) has been reunited in heaven with his beloved wife, Maridell. Raynal passed away peacefully in his home after a long and wonderful life, having been cared for by his children, wife, and others who loved him dearly. He is preceded in death by his wife, Maridell Lewis Pearson; parents, John and Elizabeth Pearson; and his three brothers, Dwain, Marden and Alaiff.
Raynal grew up on a farm in Marysvale, Utah, and served a mission for the LDS Church in the Pacific Northwest. He graduated from Brigham Young University, where he met and married Maridell Pearson in 1951. They had a love affair in their marriage that lasted 63 years.
Raynal was a chaplain in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War, where his influence for good was felt by many. After his military service, he and Maridell returned to Richfield, Utah, and began to raise their family of five children.
An extremely hard worker with a great mind for business, Raynal was successful in owning and operating Pearson Tire and multiple wholesale and retail tire operations throughout the state. His businesses also included Sevier Valley Oil, gas stations, and hotels in several states. In 1999, he was named "Tire Dealer of the Year" by Modern Tire Dealer magazine.
He and his wife brought the Sterling Scholar scholarship program to the central Utah communities. He was an active member of Rotary International. In 1979, he moved to Orem, Utah. Raynal faithfully served in many callings for the Mormon Church such as bishop, stake presidency and stake patriarch. He had a valiant testimony of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
He is remembered for his sharp intellect, his great wisdom and his love of practical jokes. He enjoyed animals and working in his garden, where he spent many happy hours.
He is also survived by his children, Todd (Brenda), Rod (Elayne), Trina (Stuart), Larry (Jani) and Marie (Lee), 21 grandchildren and 26 great grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held Monday, Dec. 15 at 12 p.m. at the Orem LDS Chapel, 1505 North 130 East, Orem, Utah. Condolences may be sent to www.bergmortuary.com.
(For more on Raynal Pearson, click "Pearson Tire founder Raynal Pearson dies.")
