James Konesky

“James Konesky, affectionately known as the “”Herriman Happy Guy”” or the “”Waving Runner,”” has become a fixture in the community. Nearly every weekday morning, you can catch him on his run, waving enthusiastically at every vehicle that passes by. His morning routine has turned into a bright spot for many of Herriman’s residents, often bringing a smile to the faces of those he passes. James isn’t just running for himself; he’s making a small, but meaningful, impact on his community. On some mornings, he even brings a garbage bag along to pick up litter, reflecting his commitment to keeping Herriman clean and beautiful.

Originally from Northern California, James moved to Utah to attend BYU, where he earned degrees in electrical engineering and business. But while his professional life has been impressive—he’s played key roles in tech and healthcare, currently working at Intermountain Health—his true passion lies in creation. James is a builder at heart, constantly tinkering with personal projects like designing his own Bluetooth speaker, constructing an electric bike, and developing high-power battery packs. His love for hands-on work speaks to his curiosity and drive to learn, and it’s these personal projects that give him the most satisfaction. It’s clear that James thrives on innovation, finding joy in bringing his ideas to life.

Family is at the core of James’ world. He and his wife have raised six children, all of whom have graduated from high school. His wife, known for her skill in making their yard beautiful with seasonal plants and flowers, complements James’ passion for creativity. Together, they’ve built a life focused on making both their home and community a better place. James often expresses how proud he is of his family and the changes they’ve gone through as they’ve grown, reflecting his deep sense of fulfillment from watching his children evolve into their best selves.

While James’ life is filled with passion and creativity, it hasn’t been without its challenges. In 2020, he was hit hard by long-COVID, an ordeal that pushed him to the brink. Over the course of three months, he lost 70 pounds, endured numerous hospital visits, and grappled with the emotional and physical toll the illness took on him. However, James’ unshakable faith and resilience saw him through. He leaned on prayer, blessings, and the support of those around him, eventually finding a path to healing. Through sheer determination and a change in his diet, he slowly rebuilt his health and got back to running and creating. This experience taught him invaluable lessons in patience, gratitude, and the power of perseverance.

James’ ability to overcome adversity has only strengthened his resolve to bring positivity to others. He’s driven by a desire to make a difference in his community, no matter how small the gesture may seem. Whether it’s a smile and a wave during his morning run or cleaning up the neighborhood, James finds purpose in uplifting those around him. His past experiences have shaped his outlook, making him more compassionate, hopeful, and dedicated to his faith and family. As he continues to run, wave, and create, James serves as a quiet but powerful reminder that even the smallest actions can bring joy to a community.

In a world where busyness and distractions can often make people feel disconnected, James Konesky’s simple act of waving at cars reminds us of the power of small gestures. His positivity, creativity, and dedication to Herriman make him a truly unique and valued part of the city.”