Bradford Davis Lusk, born October 25, 1947, in San Bernardino, California, to proud parents Benton and Louise Lusk, left us on September 19, 2023, to embark on his next journey. Brad spent his formative years in this same city that he held dear to his heart.
From an early age, Brad’s passion for learning shone brightly, earning him many honors throughout the years. His proudest accomplishment was being elected as the mayor and class president of his high school by his classmates. Following his graduation, he pursued higher education at the University of Southern California (Go Trojans!), Brooklyn University and New York University.
Throughout his career, Brad dedicated many beloved years to the radio sales industry, leaving his mark in Oregon, Colorado, Arizona and his home state of California. It was during this time that Brad developed an unrelenting passion for running—a love affair that began in the 1980s and never waned. He amassed a profound collection of medals from marathons run in Los Angeles, New York and St. George, Utah.
In 1992, Brad found another love, Sharon Smiley, who he was finally able to convince to marry him in 1996. Together they resided in the picturesque Pacific Palisades where he thrived as the facilities manager at Self-Realization Fellowship – Lake Shrine and served as the president of the Chamber of Commerce in the Palisades.
In 2020, Brad and Sharon retired to the stunning landscapes of St. George where the breathtaking red rock mountains graced their living room windows daily.
Brad’s energy and love for being active extended to his volunteer work, first at Monrovia State Park (California) and later at Snow Canyon State Park (Utah). He found immense joy and fulfillment while being in nature and contributing to his community.
Bradford is survived by his loving wife, Sharon Smiley of St. George, Utah, and leaves behind cherished memories for his sisters: Karen Wainwright (Jim) of Visalia, California, and Janet Lusk Sugihara (Glenn) of Santa Cruz, California. His legacy continues through his nephews: James Wainwright (Sandy) and Daniel Wainwright (Tiffany), as well as his nieces: Lauren Sugihara (Austin) and Jackie Sugihara (Jeff). Brad’s influence also extends to the lives of his stepson, Neal Bird, along with Brianne Bird, and their daughters Nicole, Olivia and Rachel. Brad was preceded in death by his stepdaughter, Nancy Bird, in 2010.
To honor Brad’s rich and vibrant life, a celebration of life will take place on February 3 at SRF Lake Shrine in Pacific Palisades. Let us gather together to celebrate the remarkable journey of a man whose passion, kindness and zest for life will forever remain in our hearts.
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