Russell (Russ) Cranstoun Mead, Sr. – 06/10/1943 – 09/14/2020. Russ was born in Riverside, California, the son of Franklin Mead, Sr. and Elisa Mead. After graduating high school in Riverside, Russ attended The University of Oregon, where he received his Baccalaureate degree and Master’s degrees in Biology and Chemistry. Following that he pursued additional studies at the University of Arizona. He spent the rest of his life in Tucson. His life's work was at Palo Verde High School, where he taught Mathematics for over thirty years, coached track and cross country, and was prominent in the School Council. Helping his students and student-athletes to achieve their best was a gratifying accomplishment for him. After retiring from Palo Verde in 2010, he spent his time traveling, visiting his beloved grandchildren, reviewing microbreweries worldwide, and annually attending classes at the University of Vienna, Austria. He was called home by his Lord and Savior, Monday, September 14, 2020. Russ is survived by his son, Russell C. Mead, Jr., daughter-in-law, Nicole Calakos, grandchildren, Tyler and Tessa Mead, all of North Carolina, older brothers, Franklin and Douglas Mead, and younger brother, Robert Mead, all of California. Many friends and family will sorely miss Russ. Seventy-seven forever. Brings Funeral Services of Tucson will conduct his end of life events. There will be a socially distanced public visitation from 4-7p Friday, Sept 25; former students and friends, please come. His memorial and celebration of life service with immediate family will be held on Saturday, September 26. He will be laid to rest finally and forever next to his father and mother at Forest Hills Cemetery, Madison, Wisconsin.