Brooks Benjamin Wangsgaard passed away quietly at his home in Kaysville, Utah, on the night of December 15, 2025. He was just 27. Born prematurely on April 30, 1998, in Layton, Utah, Brooks came into the world as the firstborn of six children—and a twin. His parents, Kristine and the late Timothy Clinton Wangsgaard, welcomed him and his brother earlier than expected, their due date originally set for June 19. From the start, Brooks grew into a kind, thoughtful man whose life was full of quiet adventures and deep connections.
As a kid, Brooks was the type who soaked up the world around him. He was quiet but funny, with a laugh that could light up a room and eyes that sparkled when he smiled. He learned by watching others and jumping in hands-on, always observing everything with a keen curiosity. His family remembers him as meek and loving, a son who strived to do good in every way. Even when he felt like his best wasn’t enough, he kept trying, pouring his heart into the people and things he cared about.
Brooks served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Omaha, Nebraska, from November 2016 to November 2018. Those two years shaped him deeply. He formed bonds with great companions and fellow elders who left lasting impressions and made him feel truly loved. The experience strengthened his faith, which remained a cornerstone of his life. Brooks loved the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, as well as Heavenly Father, with everything he had. His family finds comfort in knowing they’ll be with him again one day.
After his mission, Brooks dove into helping others. He took EMT and CNA courses at Davis Technical College, then worked as a CNA at Fairfield Village in Layton for about a year. Eager for more, he moved to Rigby, Idaho, to attend BYU-Idaho. There, he earned his Bachelor of Science in Marriage and Family Studies in just three years, graduating in July 2025. He was already gearing up for his master’s degree, with paperwork in motion. Most recently, Brooks worked at Central Davis Junior High in the Davis School District, helping students catch up on homework. It was a job that suited his patient, supportive nature.
Outdoors was where Brooks felt most alive. He loved being in nature—fishing, hiking, running, and camping under the stars. These simple joys brought him peace amid life’s challenges. He cherished his family and friends with all his heart, always putting them first. Reading was another passion, but nothing topped “The Book of Mormon” for him. It was a constant source of inspiration in his daily life.
What many didn’t see was Brooks’ long battle with depression. For years, he fought a silent war that no one should have to face alone. Now, he’s finally at peace, reunited with his dad, Timothy, who passed before him. It’s a heartbreaking reality, but his family holds onto the hope that he’s free from that pain, hanging out with loved ones who’ve gone ahead.
Brooks was preceded in death by his grandfather Perry Clinton Wangsgaard, his father Timothy Clinton Wangsgaard, his grandfather Rulon Brooks Terry, and his grandmother Claudia Jan Johnson Wangsgaard. He leaves behind his mom, Kris; his twin brother and other siblings—Kel, Grant, Luke, Nikole, and Tate—who will carry his memory forward with love.
Services for Brooks are set for this weekend. A viewing is scheduled for Sunday, December 21, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Russon Mortuary, 1941 N. Main St., in Farmington, Utah. The graveside service follows on Monday, December 22, at 11 a.m. at Kaysville City Cemetery, 425 E. Crestwood Road, in Kaysville. Friends and family are welcome to come pay their respects and celebrate a life that touched so many.
