Tanner Shell

In Loving Memory of Tanner Shell
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend, Todd Tanner Shell, age 44, on May 27, 2025.
Tanner was born on October 20, 1980, in Provo, Utah, and spent his early childhood there before moving to Foster City, California at the age of 3½. Five years later, his family settled in Arizona, where he would spend the rest of his life.
Tanner was a kind and gentle soul, blessed by our Heavenly Father with countless gifts. He was loyal, clever, witty, and incredibly intelligent-sharing his knowledge and talents with everyone around him in his own unique way. He was an amazing son, a great big brother, a loving uncle, and a friend to all.
A naturally gifted athlete, Tanner excelled in every sport he played-golf, soccer, and baseball-but basketball was his true passion. From the moment he could bounce a ball, he played competitively, earning spots on elite club teams and helping lead Mesa Mountain View High School to back-to-back state championships in 1997–98 and 1998–99. His dedication and talent earned him a basketball scholarship to Arizona State University, where he continued to shine.
Though he loved to compete, Tanner most valued the lifelong friendships forged through team sports. In his later years, he found joy in coaching and supporting his nieces and nephews, always proud to watch them compete and perform.
Tanner was a partner of two nationwide sanitation company's; American Waste Services, Inc and Mesa Waste Services, LLC, where he served as director of website development and operations from 2006 to present.
While Tanner's love for sports never faded, his true peace and passion were found outdoors-camping, hunting, and fishing with those he loved most. Nowhere was he happier than standing knee-deep in a Montana river, fly rod in hand, chasing rainbow, brown, or cutthroat trout.
Tanner is survived by his loving parents, Todd and Kelli Shell; his sister, Krystal Arnett, and brother-in-law, Jason Arnett; and his cherished nieces and nephews: Matix, Emeri, Talan, Monroe, and Phoebe Arnett. He is also survived by his grandmother, Kathleen Gardner, and many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, and close friends, including:
– Aunt Robin Juvan and family (Don, Lyndi, Cami, Brady)
– Aunt Beth Wann and son (Michael)
– The Jolley family (Shelley, Jamie, Jennifer)
– Uncle Jeff and Aletha Jolley and family (Brandon, Lexi, Zach)
– Connie Dees and family (Robin, Fara)
– The Rux family (Mike, Jenny, Rachel)
– Uncle Tyler and Che Shell family (Shane, Wren)
Tanner was preceded in death by his grandparents Robert and Mary Shell, Elbert (Al) Gardner, Uncle Joseph Jolley, Aunt Tina Rux, Uncle Mike Rux, Uncle Felix Dees, and many other treasured great-grandparents and relatives.
He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Viewing
Friday, June 13, 2025 | 6:00–8:00 PM
Bunker Funeral Home
3529 E University Dr
Mesa, AZ 85213
Funeral Service
Saturday, June 14, 2025 | 11:00 AM
(Additional viewing at 10:00 AM)
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
2549 N. 32nd St.
Mesa, AZ 85213
Celebration of Life Luncheon
Following the service, please join us for a luncheon with a roaming microphone to share memories and stories of Tanner.
Interment will follow at Mesa Cemetery.
Zoom Link for the Funeral Service
https://zoom.us/j/92427394145?pwd=kjPQL9QJxMYZVhGR4Gg9JuhDS7Wa1n.1
In lieu of flowers, the family suggest Plant-a-tree in the Arizona Forrest in Tanner's honor https://shop.alivingtribute.org/products/plant-a-tree-arizona
Arrangements by Bunker's University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.