Russell Scott Knaras' Obituary
Russell Scott Knaras, born on May 18th, 1964, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to his parents Henry and Maud Knaras. Russell passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday February 5th, 2025, at the young age of 60. Russell was the proud father of his son Cody, whom he loved so much and would talk about often with a huge smile on his face. Russell met the love of his life, Yvonne Russell, in 2006 and they became lifelong partners. Russell had a large family and gained 2 stepchildren, 8 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren and he loved them all so much and was proud of each one of them. Though Russell is no longer with us on this earth, his memory will be cherished and live on in the hearts of those who loved him. He will be remembered for the joy he brought to so many.
Russell was a master Sous Chef, and worked in many restaurants, including Grecian Gardens, Mulboons, Los Primos, The Olympian and Jim's Restaurant, where he was able to share his talent with many diners. Russell was known for many of his own dishes, especially his Chile Verde. Russell was also a professional painter for over 25 years. He painted thousands of commercial and residential projects around the state. At the time of his passing, Russell was employed with Salt Lake Community College where he was a janitor. He was known for going above and beyond with any project that he started and he became incredibly articulate about the work he left behind, which you can credit both his hard work, and Yvonne for. Russell absolutely loved his job and whenever he would speak about it, he would light up and say, "It is so nice to have a job you love. It makes it feel like you are not working!" Russell took great pride in his work and had many talents. He was always helping around the house, fixing the roof, completing repairs, and landscaping the yard beautifully. Russell helped care for his Father-in-Law, Harold at the end of Harold's time here on earth, and was also a caregiver to Yvonne's uncle, Augie, while recovering from a diabetic coma. Russell would help anyone in need, and was an incredible and selfless man. Russell was a dedicated member of the AA community and had many friends he met there. Russell put in the work, mentally and physically and would donate his talents to help refresh the Alano Club in his spare time. Whether it be a fresh paint job or other areas of repair, Russell was always willing to help. With the unwavering love and support from his lifetime partner Yvonne, Russell overcame personal challenges, mentally and physically that made him the remarkable man he was.
Russell is survived by his mother, Maud Knaras, whom he loved dearly. He shared a beautiful and cherished relationship with his soulmate and love of his life, Yvonne Russell. He was a loving father to his son Cody Haddon, and a devoted step-father to Stacy (John) Rolph and Brandon (Danielle) Russell, all of whom he treasured. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Taylor Swedin, Morgen (Mike) Downs and Braden (Lindsay) Rolph, along with Talon (Zennica), Jamison, Jayden, Arabella and Marley Russell. Russell cherished his two great-grandchildren Bryant Swedin and Amethyst Russell with all his heart. Russell is also survived by his brother, Jeff Knaras; his sister Kelly (Tony) Ciliberto and his sister in law Char McLaughlin. He was a beloved uncle, and held the title "Fun Uncle", to his many nieces and nephews: Erin (Laura) McLaughlin; Kyra (Jared) Kelley; Kristen (Albert) Rappaport; Anthony Ciliberto Jr.; Jessica Ciliberto; Austin (Addison) Knaras; Camron Knaras; and Haley (Landon) Mills. Russell was also a wonderful great-uncle to Keegan McLaughlin, Magnolia and Willow Rappaport, along with a large extended family including many cousins.
Russell not joins his father, Henry Knaras; brother Larry Knaras; his nephew Phillip McLaughlin; his aunt Alice and cousin Art Williamson; his father-in-law Harold Wittke; and many more cherished family members who preceded him in death. We take comfort in knowing they shared a joyous reunion in Heaven.
His grandchildren will remember all the fun times they had when Russell would pick them up for sleepovers in his little white truck, take them to get treats and go swimming. They are so blessed for the many memories they each have that will last a lifetime.
Services will be held at the Neil O'Donnell Funeral Home at 372 East 100 South Salt Lake City, Utah 84111, on Tuesday, February 18th, 2025 with a viewing from 6:00PM to 7:00PM. Immediately following the viewing please join Russell's family for a service so friends and family can share any memories they may of Russell until 8:00PM that evening.
In Lieu of flowers, a Go Fund Me account has been made in Russell's name for anyone who would like to donate toward expenses. Donations are greatly appreciated.
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