Russell John Helquist

July 7, 1975 ~ November 10, 2018
Russell John Helquist, beloved son, husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend. passed away on November 10, 2018 to an unexpected work-related accident.
Born to Kirk and Nancy Helquist on July 7, 1975, Russell graduated from Monticello High School in 1993 and married his high school sweetheart, Naomi Lynn Garnder, on December 27, 1994. 
Russell and Naomi lived in Monticello while Naomi attended college in which she earned her nursing degree and Russell worked for Sonderegger Construction. 
On December 11, 1995 they welcomed Treyton ‘John’ to their home and Kyler ‘Russell’ on November 4, 2002, which completed their family.
In September of 2004, they move their family to Moab, UT.  Russell started his own business adventure with Helquist Construction after obtaining his general contractors license. 
He was a hard worker and expected himself and others to do their best.  He could fix anything and make anything as well.He built beautiful cabinets and furniture.  From youth, his nickname was ‘MacGyver’.  
A better opportunity came along that offered a steady paycheck and benefits for his family, so Russell went to work at Potash Mine.  
He had a strong passion in life for his family, friends, the outdoors, hunting, fishing, camping, work, and serving others.
He was generous, kind, hard-working, a jokester, and a master of whatever he set his mind to.
All of his nephews relied on Russell to help build their pinewood derby, as he always had the fastest car.   
Russell was a great mechanic and loved spending time with his boys, teaching them those skills.  They had just recently purchased a jeep that they completely rebuilt.  They loved showing off how tough it was and it really could go anywhere. 
He was the first person to be called to help when someone was stuck or in need.  He came in the middle of the night to rescue a family member that was sliding off a ledge.  He was the pillar of the family and would come with a smile whenever he was needed. 
Russell was a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  He considered the members of his ward just like family and would do anything for anyone in need.  His testimony was evident through his actions in life, as he was a true disciple of Jesus Christ.  
Russell is survived by his wife, Naomi Helquist; his eldest son, Treyton Helquist; his youngest son, Kyler Helquist; his mother and father, Kirk and Nancy Helquist; his brothers and sisters, Kim (Jerry) Geurts, Tamra (Craig) Cordasco, Heidi (Craig) Swenson, Charlie Helquist, Kevin Helquist, Steven (Emmy) Helquist, and Krystal (Chris) Lee; and 40 nieces and nephews.  
He is preceded in death by both sets of grandparents, E.A. and Bernice Helquist, Bernard and Blanche Levanger; and nephews Ian Helquist and William Lee.
Everyone whose life he touched will miss him dearly. Russell will continue to be an inspiration and remembered by all who knew him.
Funeral services were held Saturday, November 17 in Monticello, UT. Interment at the Monticello Cemetery.
Card of thanks
The family would like to express their deep gratitude for the outpouring love, support, prayers, and kind words of the community.
A special thanks to Moab Third Ward and Monticello Fourth Ward for the support and meals that have been provided.
A special thanks to San Juan Mortuary for the great care and professionalism in our time of need.

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