Russell was born May 2, 1961 in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Russell G. Wilkinson and Barbara Worth Wilkinson.
As a young man, Russell enjoyed scouting and earned the Eagle Scout rank. He graduated from Granger High School and attended Dixie College and Salt Lake Community College.
He was an avid outdoorsman who loved shooting, hunting, fishing, boating, camping, and off-road driving. He spent many, many days trolling Strawberry Reservoir, Flaming Gorge, and other lakes.
Russell trained as a pilot at Dixie College and was nearly complete before he was diagnosed with Hodgins Disease and soon after with type one diabetes. This eliminated his ability to get a pilot’s license. He talked many times about how much he enjoyed flying.
Russell was an HVAC controls technician where he became very proficient and worked big sites but several years ago, Russell’s medical condition forced him to retire early.
Russell loved and was very proud of his daughter Chelseya and his wonderful grandchildren too. He talked about how much he enjoyed having them around and spending time with them.
He is survived by his sister Rebecca W. (David) Spjut, brother Darryl K. Wilkinson, grandchildren, Jordan T. Nohava, Daegon E. Olson, and Addison R. Wilkinson-Roll.
Russell was preceded in death by his daughter Chelseya Ambrosia Spring Wilkinson Olson, parents Russell G. Wilkinson and Barbara Worth Wilkinson.
Those who would like to pay their respects may do so at a viewing being held on Sunday, March 18th from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. or before funeral services on Monday, March 19th from 10:00 to 10:45 a.m. at the Valley View Funeral Home. Funeral services will begin at 11:00 a.m. at the Valley View Funeral Home, 4335 W. 4100 S. West Valley. Interment will be at the Valley View Memorial Park.
