Rustin Wayas, 49, passed away peacefully on September 5, 2025, in Salt Lake City, Utah. In his final moments, Rustin was surrounded by the love of his wife, his parents, and his siblings, a reflection of the bond that defined his life.

Born on December 22, 1975, in Los Angeles, California, Rustin lived a life of purpose, faith, and adventure, leaving behind a legacy of service, love, and laughter. The beloved son of Richard and Toni Wayas, Rustin grew up across the deserts and mountains of Arizona, making his home in Wickenburg, Yuma, Tucson and Flagstaff.. He graduated from Centennial High School in 1994 and went on to pursue his education at Brigham Young University. Rustin earned his degree in Accounting from BYU-Hawai‘i in June 2001, where he formed lifelong friendships and strengthened his love for the outdoors and the ocean.

On October 16, 2008, Rustin married the love of his life, Paige, in Mesa, Arizona. Together they built a home centered on faith, family, and adventure, raising three sons – Kaleo (16), Boden (13), and Sawyer (12) – who were his greatest pride and joy.

Rustin dedicated his career to protecting and serving his country. He began with the U.S. Border Patrol on September 22, 2002, before joining the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) in 2007. In 2018, he was promoted to Resident Agent in Charge of the Flagstaff Field Office, where his courage, integrity, and leadership earned the respect of colleagues and community alike.

An outdoorsman at heart, Rustin embraced life with grit and passion. He was a hunter—whether bow or rifle in hand—snowboarder, rock climber, fisherman, hiker, camper, kitesurfer, and athlete. He loved the rhythm of a CrossFit workout, the camaraderie of a softball league with his brothers, and the faithful companionship of his dogs. Every pursuit was marked by his adventurous spirit and his determination to push himself to new heights.

More than his accomplishments, Rustin was the glue that held his family together. He was his brothers’ best friend, always there for a game, a laugh, or a word of encouragement. He cared deeply for his parents, honoring and supporting them with devotion and love. To his sisters, he was a source of protection and strength, and to his nieces and nephews, a model of fun and loyalty. Family gatherings were brighter, louder, and warmer when Rustin was there—his presence stitched hearts together in a way few could.

Beyond his professional and personal achievements, Rustin gave generously of his time to his community and church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He coached his sons’ teams with enthusiasm, patience, and humor, inspiring not only his own children but countless others. In his church service, he mentored youth through high adventure camps and activities, and he faithfully served as Second Counselor in the Bishopric. His ability to connect with people—especially young men—was rooted in his authenticity, wit, and quiet strength.

Rustin will be remembered for his altruistic and courageous heart, his sharp mind and witty humor, and his boundless love for family and friends. He was genuine, caring, hardworking, and determined—someone who lived fully and gave freely.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Paige; his cherished sons, Kaleo, Boden, and Sawyer; his loving parents, Richard and Toni; his siblings and in-laws – Rich and Nicky Wayas, Aaron and Sasha Wayas, Kevin and Jo Wayas, Brian and Wendy Wayas, Noelani Wayas and Brandon Seare, and Amy and Willie Taula; and many nieces, nephews, colleagues, and friends who were blessed to know him.

Though his time on earth was far too short, Rustin’s light will continue to shine in the lives of those he touched, in the mountains he climbed, in the laughter of his boys, and in the love of his family.

The funeral service for Rustin will be Saturday, September 27, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints located at 625 East Cherry Avenue, Flagstaff, Arizona.

To support the family during this difficult time, a memorial fund has been established. You can contribute here: Wayas Family

For those wishing to send flowers, arrangements may be ordered through Robyn’s Nest, located at 2011 East 3rd Ave, Flagstaff, AZ 86004, since the Walker Funeral Home florist-partner (“Send Flowers” tab shown at top of page) is Utah based, only.  Rustin’s family requests that if ordering floral tributes, please call the Robyn’s Nest directly at 928-773-0054, instead of using a Googled website to locate florists in Flagstaff, Arizona.