Darrell K. Russell, 57 of Idaho Falls died peacefully Friday, November 18, 2011, following
a courageous battle with cancer. He passed away with his loving wife by his side in the home he built.
He left this earth at 5:30 a.m., the perfect time for a morning elk hunt. He was born September 5, 1954 in Rigby, Idaho. He was raised with his brother, Ken, in Roberts and Medicine Lodge, Idaho by their loving parents Eldridge and Betty Russell. He graduated from Clark County High School in 1972, where he participated in basketball, football, and track. He attended Ricks College and then studied and worked as an apprentice carpenter before earning his journeyman's certificate. He married his high school sweetheart, Vicki Leonardson, on June 22, 1973. They were blessed with three amazing children.
Darrell worked 10 years as a carpenter before partnering in RusKal Construction. In 1992 he started RAM Construction, working side by side with his son Cameron. Darrell was a skilled carpenter and contractor. He loved hunting, hiking, fishing, skiing and snowboarding. He especially enjoyed archery season and the time spent with the 'hunting crew'. Darrell loved the Lord and was an active member of the First Baptist Church serving on various boards and committees. He also served on the camp board of Cathedral Pines Baptist Camp. Of all his many construction projects, the beautiful chapel at this Sun Valley camp was his favorite. Darrell will be remembered for his sense of humor and great smile. He had a common sense and logical approach to life that was appreciated by anyone needing a helping hand, a bit of construction or life advice. He was a loyal friend and a terrific brother, a very involved and loving father and husband, and a "super funny" Grandpa. He is survived by his wife, Vicki , sons Trey and Cameron (Brenna) Russell all of Idaho Falls; daughter, Rachel (Nathan) Morreale ,grandchildren Reese and Damon Morreale of South Jordan, UT; mother Betty Russell; his brother and lifelong best friend Kenneth (Kriss)Russell of Idaho Falls; siblings Elmont (Helen) Birch of Virginia Beach, VA; Jenial (Nasser) Shakib of Ogden, UT; Sadie Messick; Jean (Jim) Overholser; Keith Birch; all of Idaho Falls, LaRee (Joel) Billman of Dubois; Joyce (David) Holbrook of Ogden, UT; Bonnie (Rob) Broadhead of Malad; and Les (Vicki) Birch of Rigby. He was preceded in death by his father Eldridge Russell, and brothers Linden and Boyd Birch. Memorial services will be held at 12:00 p.m. Saturday, November 26, 2011 at Calvary Chapel Christian School (formerly First Baptist Church), 665 John Adams Parkway in Idaho Falls. The family will visit with friends Friday, November 25, 2011 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., at the school. and an hour before the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Huntsman Cancer Foundation, 500 Huntsman Way, Salt Lake City, Utah 84108 or a charity of your choice.
Service Details.
Visitation
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Friday, November 25th, 2011
Location:
Funeral Home
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Service
When:
Saturday, November 26th, 2011
Location:
Funeral Home
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