Russell John Helquist, our beloved son, husband, father, brother, uncle and friend, passed away on Nov. 10 to an unexpected work-related accident.
Born to Kirk and Nancy Helquist on July 7, 1975, Helquist graduated from Monticello High School in 1993 and married his high school sweetheart, Naomi Lynn Garnder, on Dec. 27, 1994. Helquist and Naomi lived in Monticello while Naomi attended college in which she earned her nursing degree and Helquist worked for Sonderegger Construction. On Dec. 11, 1995, they welcomed Treyton “John” to their home, and Kyler “Helquist” on Nov. 4, 2002, which completed their family.
In September of 2004, they moved their family to Moab. Helquist 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 pay check and benefits for his family so Helquist 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, a master of whatever he set his mind to. All of his nephews relied on Helquist to help build their pinewood derby as he always had the fastest car.
Helquist 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 our family and would come with a smile whenever he was needed.
Helquist 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 as a true disciple of Jesus Christ.
Helquist 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 was preceded in death by both sets of grandparents, E.A. and Bernice Helquist, and Bernard and Blanche Levanger; and nephews Ina Helquist and William Lee.
Everyone whose life he touched will miss him dearly. Helquist will continue to be an inspiration and remembered by all who knew him.
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 3rd ward and Monticello 4th 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.
A viewing will be held on Friday, Nov. 16, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 701 Locust Lane in Moab. A second viewing will be held on Saturday, Nov. 17, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 347 N. 200 West, in Monticello. Funeral services will be held at noon at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 347 N. 200 West, in Monticello. The interment will be held at the Monticello cemetery immediately following the funeral services.
