Rex Nelson Nelson Garrett

Rex Nelson Garrett, 60, of West Jordan, Utah, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 30, 2026 surrounded by his loving family.

Rex - Husband, Dad, and Papa, was born on October 26, 1965, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Dale Nelson Garrett and Ethel Pearl Magnum.

Rex graduated from West Jordan High School in 1984, where he was a standout football player. Throughout his life, he carried that same competitive spirit and passion into everything he did, including becoming a billiards champion and an avid sports enthusiast.

Rex met his best friend, Mari Shantel Hoskins, at West Jordan High School. They later married in 1988 in West Jordan, Utah. Together they built a life centered on family, love, and unwavering dedication.

Rex dedicated 38 years of his career to Smith’s as a Produce Manager, where he was known for his strong work ethic, reliability, and commitment to those he worked with.

Rex was the kind of man you always knew you could call on when you needed him. He would help anyone, no matter how he knew them. He loved being outdoors and spending time with the people he cared about most—especially going to the lake with his wife, children, and grandchildren, which was one of his favorite things to do. He found joy in golfing, boating, water skiing, and snow skiing. He was passionate about football, billiards, and took great pride in his yard, home, and his dogs.

He was incredibly proud of his son, Austin, and took great joy in watching him excel in sports as well as life. He was equally proud of his daughter, Ashley, whose accomplishments in cheerleading and beyond brought him so much happiness. Rex loved and supported his children deeply in everything they pursued. He cherished watching his children and grandchildren grow and truly valued every moment he spent with them.

Rex loved his wife, Shantel, with every beat of his heart and could not imagine a life without her. She was his entire world and his north star, he knew he would always find his way back to her. He loved her dearly and more than words could ever fully express.

Above all, Rex’s greatest passion was his family. He was a loyal, hardworking, compassionate, and funny man who brought warmth and laughter to those around him. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, papa, brother, and friend—a true family man who meant so much to so many.

He lived by the words, “Keep on punching, Apollo,” a reflection of his resilience and determination.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Shantel; his children, Justin James Lamper (Heidi), Austin Reed Garrett (Megan), and Ashley Nicole Nay (Austin); and his cherished grandchildren, Kiam Lamper, Amarayah Lamper, Liam Mason Garrett, Eleanor Emari Garrett, August Reed Nay, Ayden Thomas Nay, and Aspen Grace Nay. His siblings, Tony (Tracy), Jason (Moneka), and Jennifer Hardman.

Preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law, Jason Hardman.

The family is grateful for the exceptional and compassionate care that he received by the Common Spirit - Jordan Valley ICU team.

A viewing will be held on Thursday, May 7, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, at the Larkin Mortuary Riverton, 3688 West 12600 South, Riverton, Utah. Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 8, 2026, at 11:00AM at the Maples 6th Ward, 8107 South 6700 West, West Jordan, Utah with a viewing prior from 9:30AM to 10:30AM. Interment will follow the services at Herriman City Cemetery.

Virtual attendance will be available via Zoom.