Obituary of Russell Kent Gardner

Russell Kent Gardner (Big Russ), our beloved Papa passed away June 6, 2016 at his home in Highland Utah. He was born March 27th 1952, In American Fork, Utah to Glen and Lois Gardner. He is survived by wife- Lynn Gardner, Sons- Rick (Debbie), Matt (Alicia), Daughter in law- Kelsey(B.J.), and Grandkids- Russell, Jaddin, Brooklynn, Ryker, T.K. , Chase, Aspen, Zoe, Scott, Cooper, Lola, William, Addie and Iris, Mother- Lois Skurlec, Brother- Tom Gardner (Hope), Sisters -Glenda Roberts (Tom) and Tina Harline. Preceded in death by son- B.J. Gardner, Father -Glen Gardner, Sister- Jo Anne Gardner and Brother in law-Dennis Harline. He graduated from Orem High School in 1970 and earned a business degree from Brigham Young University in 1978. He served a faithful mission for the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, in Australia. He married his lovely bride, Lynn Macdonald in the Provo LDs Temple November 8, 1974. Russell was best known for taking care of his friends, family and neighbors in any capacity that he could; he was always out mowing lawns, fixing sprinklers, shoveling walks, sharpening lawn mower blades, making pine wood derby cars etc. If there was a tool to accomplish the task, he had that tool and was happy to use. If he didn’t have the tool, he would buy it, sometimes in multiple shapes, sizes and capacities. He left this amazing legacy of love and service to his boys, his grandchildren and anyone who knew him. He worked as an electrician, a business owner and as a salesman for Reuel’s Photo Blue, for 25 years. He thoroughly loved working with the schools art programs throughout the state. One of his favorite cartoons was The Little Mermaid which is fitting because he was also a lover of gadgets and gizmos, of which he had plenty. He was happiest when he was spending time with his kids and grandkids; going to concerts, going to plays, making rockets, hot tubbing and grilling; the activity was not as important as just making memories with his family. He was rarely seen with his family without a camera in his hand: he was so proud of his boys and his grandkids and loved documenting their every move. He was a lover of life and was always excited about something. His teasing nature and genuine love of others will leave a big void in our hearts and in this world. A funeral service will be held, Saturday June 11, 2016 at 1:00 p.m. at the Hollowcrest LDS Chapel,10962 North 6400 West, Highland, Utah. A viewing will be held Friday from 6-8 p.m. at Anderson & Sons Lone Peak Chapel, 6141 West 11000 North, Highland and Saturday at the church from 11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. prior to the services. Internment will take place at the Highland Cemetery, 6200 West 11000 North Highland, Utah.