Russell William Winkler passed away at home with his family by his side on April 21, 2021 at the young age of 59, after battling brain cancer for eighteen months.

He was born on February 17, 1962 to Robert W. and M. Jeannine Nokes Winkler in Murray, Utah. He was the fourth child of five kids. He graduated Jordan High School in 1980, and then went on to serve a LDS mission in West Virginia. After completing his mission, he attended Utah State University before meeting his eternal companion, Kristine Jo Rigby. Russ and Kris were married on November 8, 1985 and were later sealed together in the Salt Lake LDS Temple on April 9, 1988 for all time and eternity. They were residents of Kearns for almost their entire marriage of 35 years where they raised their children.

Russell had many hobbies, but most of his time was spent serving others, spending time at the family cabin, and playing with his grandchildren. Throughout his life he became a great handyman and used his skills to help anybody who needed them. One of his happiest accomplishments in life was helping build the family cabin which became his happy place. He spent much of his spare time at the cabin making improvements and maintaining the property, and would occasionally attempt to be friends with the wild deer, bears, and cougars. When he wasn't spending time at the family cabin, he would be snuggling any grandchild that was within reach. He had the family name of “the baby hog”, and would gladly walk around church with any baby in the ward.

Russ made lifelong friends from his childhood through his adult life; many coming from his neighborhood, school, work, and from the cabin community. He loved spending time with them and wouldn't miss the opportunity to recount the many stories and shenanigans that they got into, which there were many.

He is survived by his dear sweet wife Kristine; four children Megan (Brandon) Holbrook, Andrew (Sarah) Winkler, Katlyn (Benjamin) Shrewsbury, Kelan Winkler; four grandchildren Sadie, Caden, Owen, Wyatt; four siblings Karla, Robert, Lori, Peggy. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, and his grandparents.

His family would like to express their thanks and gratitude for the amazing outpouring of love and support from his many friends and family. Russell was someone who was committed to serving his family and community. He is dearly missed, but his spirit and example will never be forgotten.

A viewing will be held on Friday, April 30th from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at the LDS church located at 5938 W 6200 S, Kearns UT. The funeral service will be held Saturday May 1st at 11:00 a.m., at the same church house, with a Family Gathering from 10:00-10:45 a.m. He will be laid to rest at the Larkin Sunset Gardens, Sandy Utah.