OREM, Utah—Jack Raynal Pearson, founder of Pearson Tire and other businesses in Utah, died Dec. 9 at age 87.
Mr. Pearson served a mission in the Pacific Northwest for the Church of Latter Day Saints before graduating from Brigham Young University. He was a chaplain in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War.
He later founded Pearson Tire, Sevier Valley Oil and other businesses in Utah and neighboring states.
The first Pearson Tire store opened in 1950. At one point the dealership had expanded to 26 retail outlets and had a thriving store franchise program. The business later retrenched on the retail side to eight locations while building up its wholesale business.
Mr. Pearson was an active member of Rotary, serving twice as its local club president. He continued to be active in the Mormon Church, serving as a bishop, with the stake presidency, and stake patriarch throughout the years.
His wife of 63 years, Maridell, died in June at age 83. He is survived by his children Todd (Brenda), Rod (Elayne), Trina (Stuart), Larry (Jani) and Marie (Lee); 21 grandchildren; and 26 great-grandchildren.