David Rodney Orell

David Rodney Orell passed away, surrounded by his loved ones, on August 24, 2024. He was born April 30th, 1964 in Ogden, Utah to Rodney and Joan Orell.

In his early years, David’s disability did not deter him from living a life full of joy and adventure. He enjoyed downhill, cross-country, and water skiing. He loved going to work with his dad and looked forward to their daily two mile runs, which continued into adulthood! He enjoyed frequenting “Charlie” (Trolley) Square. Like many of his family members, David was a passionate foodie and a well respected connoisseur of root beer, iced tea, and hot dogs. David had life-long, and frankly, life-altering friendships. Our family was constantly reminded, “ROD RUSSELL IS MY BEST FRIEND!” Rod and Faye Russell, along with their children Sloan, Sasha, and Shane, were David’s most beloved and cherished friends. Year after year, you provided David with an opportunity to experience one of life’s greatest gifts – true and unwavering friendship rooted in love. You are deeply adored by our family.

David also looked forward to spending time with his dear friend Kelly Carter.

As an adult, David resided in a group home for individuals with disabilities. He was cared for by the amazing staff at TURN Community Services. There are not words that accurately depict the solace brought to a family who knows that their loved one is safe, well-cared for, and adored by the people who are trusted to care for them. Among these incredibly compassionate individuals, Theresa Coyle, has gone above and beyond to care for David for the past 14 years. Theresa, we are forever indebted to you for what you have done. You cared for him as if he was your own blood and you made his quality of life beyond anything we could have hoped for. Although you declined his marriage proposal, you will always be part of our family 🙂

Thank you to Dr. Richard Arbogast for a lifetime of excellent care and guidance.

David is survived by his mother, Joan Staker Orell, his sister and brother-in-law, Rhonda and David Shepherd, his nieces and nephews, Sloan, Aly, Chris, Slade, Joe, Keenan, and his great-nieces, Jauslyn and Nora.

He was preceded in death by his father, Rodney Orell, his sister, Kathie Orell, and his niece, Khylie Baton.

David had a PhD in Life Lessons. He made his mother a better mom, his sisters better siblings, and his father a better dad, coach, and teacher. He is the reason many people walk this earth with more kindness, inclusivity, and empathy.

His sense of humor and ability to elicit authentic laughter from anyone he came across was parallel to none. He always called it like it was and loved to get into a little trouble. Remember to find the joy in a little red balloon even when rain drops keep falling on your head.

David will be honored during a private family celebration of life at a later time.

Condolences may be shared with the family at www.leavittsmortuary.com.