Russell LaVoy Kimball, 54, "Russ," of Draper, Utah, passed away unexpectedly on June 17, 2017 in the comfort of his home. Russ was born June 26, 1962 in Fillmore, Utah, the son of LeGrand and LaNila (Christensen) Kimball.
Graduating from Brighton High School class of 1981, Russ was the school's star Varsity quarterback from his sophomore year on. After high school, Russ served a mission for the LDS church in Boston, Mass. He graduated from the University of Utah with a degree in Communications in1988.
From a young age, Russ was a driven entrepreneur, unwilling to settle for mediocrity. During his senior year of high school, not only did Russ start several business ventures including selling first-aid kits to his peers, he also became one of the youngest people in Utah to receive his real-estate license.
Russ's drive to succeed and be self-sufficient was witnessed at an early age. He started his first landscaping venture in his teen years mowing lawns for neighbors to earn money. His company at that time was called RK Enterprises.
During college, Russ began working at Mansell and Associates, where he met his beloved wife, Paula. It was during his tenure at Mansell, when he solicited the opportunity to maintain the company's relocation properties. Russ sold real estate by day, and at night he would mow lawns by the headlights of his truck. It was thenthat he discovered the business of landscaping and property maintenance as a viable means to support his family.
Together, he and Paula worked tirelessly to build what is now known as Kimball Property Maintenance, growing the business to one of the top ranked snow removal companies in the nation. Today, the company has been in business for 32 years, employing over three hundred people including a number of family members and dear friends.
Along with being a successful business owner, Russ enjoyed golfing with his friends and family at both Willow Creek and Hidden Valley Country Clubs. Above and beyond anything else, Russ was an incredibly selfless, kind and generous husband, father, grandfather, employer, and friend.
Taking care of his family was Russ's number one priority and he did it well. He supported all three of his daughters in pursuing their dreams - even if that meant moving far from home and away from their "old man."
Russ's oldest daughter, Aubrey, is an active mother of 4, a gifted singer, pianist and intellectual - he was beyond proud of her determination and the even-minded analytical capabilities which she brought both into their home and most recently, into his business.
His daughter Michele, a selfless mom of 3, is also a talented singer, piano teacher and he would tell you - the best and most capable person to ever run his customer service department.
His youngest daughter Kelsi, a soon-to-be mother in August, attended Columbia University where her dad supported her throughout her master's degree. Kelsi was always a daddy's girl, and caught his "entrepreneurial bug." He loved hearing about her successes and helping her navigate through the "learning experiences."
Russ's love for dogs started at an early age. He often brought home stray dogs to love and care for. At the time of his passing, his cherished White Golden Retriever Bonnie was by his side, just as she always was in life.
Russ loved unconditionally, gave without question and had an infectious charisma about him. He was a talented salesman who was adored by many, above all, the love of his life, Paula.
Russ was a committed husband, who always made sure Paula felt supported, loved and well-cared for. His love for his sweetheart was unmistakable to anyone who witnessed his support through her two bouts of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma cancer.
He treasured his relationship with Paula and expressed constant gratitude and admiration for her strength, determination and unwavering service to her family.
Russ's lap was always a favorite for his grandchildren. He was the man with the sweets, the cuddles, and the kisses. From dance recitals to sports activities, Russ was always the proud grandpa cheering them on! He was very excited for the upcoming arrival of his eighth grandchild. They were the light of his life, and could always bring a smile to his face.
Russ's family is humbled and honored to have such a loving man who devoted his life to caring for them in countless ways. They know the impact he had on their lives, and have been touched by the endless words of support and sharing of stories from those in their immediate and extended communities.
Russ is survived by his wife Paula; his daughters Aubrey Ewing, Michele Mitchell and her husband Josh, Kelsi Brazell and her husband Tyson; his grandchildren Jaxon, Dakota, Oaklee, and Breven Ewing; Savanna, Makade, and Berklie Mitchell; and soon-to-be Ingrid Brazell; his father LeGrand, his brother Scott Kimball and his wife Wendy, his sister Lori Brown, his sister Jill Marsala, his brother Kris Kimball and his wife Barbara, his sister Andrea McBride and her husband Darl;and his many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his mother LaNila.
A viewing will be held on Friday, June 23, 2017 from 6-8 p.m. at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 East Dimple Dell Road (10600 S.) Sandy, Utah. Family and friends may visit prior to the funeral on Saturday, June 24 at the LDS Chapel at 13006 South Boulter St., Draper from 10:30 ‚ 11:30 a.m. Funeral services will begin at 12 noon at the LDS Chapel.
