Richard Frank Rhead

July 19, 1944 - December 26, 2019

In Loving Memory

Valarie and family:

I just learned of Richard's passing.  I was thinking about him very recently.  I miss you both and hope you're doing OK.  So thankful to have known him. 

Robert Baker
scappoose, OR
I never knew either of my grandfathers, so I’ll always be grateful to Richard for filling that void. Richard always made me laugh with his quirky sense of humor and his youthful exuberance. He fit in with teenagers like he was one himself. Richard has a strong moral center and always stood up for what he believed in, even when it wasn’t easy. He was courageous, which I think is rare to find these days. He was also generous and kind to all. I remember once Richard picked up an Uber passenger and allowed the total stranger to stay at his house and sober up after a wild time of partying. Going over to Richard’s to the watch the Super Bowl has become an annual tradition, and I’ll miss that greatly this year. Richard was a man of many talents, goals, ambitions, ideas, and stories. He loved his wife, and I am so thankful for both of them coming into my life. Richard loved to recite limericks. Here’s a limerick for you: I once met a young man over 60 years Who knew he’d bring me to tears? His jokes were crass His kindness unsurpassed Here’s to you Richard; cheers
Tommy Betar
west jordan, UT
Dear Val and family, so sorry to read of Richard's passing. He was such a vibrant and funny man. He was always a delight at the family parties. He will be truly missed. My love to you Val and the rest of the family. Sorry I won't be able to attend the services but my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Louise Stowe
mesquite, NV
Dear Valerie and Family, Even though it has been years since I worked with Richard, our paths frequently crossed. In his unique style, Richard always made me laugh. Once on a Western Airlines business trip to California, Richard asked a server how the chef cut in their blue cheese dressing. The server had no idea what he was talking about. In his humorous "Rhead style" he gave her a raised eye brow and said "Do you use mayonnaise or Miracle Whip." At that point not only did he make me laugh but I understood Richard"s reputation as an excellent amateur chef. We all will miss this good man. Gordon & Candy Flitton
Gordon Flitton
salt lake city, UT
Richard Rhead was a force of nature, a big personality with a very big heart. He lived large, and the pleasure he found in life is truly inspiring! I'm very grateful to have been his friend.
Melissa S Cline
santa cruz, CA
I have known Richard since I was 5 years old . I have a memory of the two Richards catching spiders in a mason jar , laying on their bellies and watching a good spider fight! They laughed all the time ... what a beautiful friendship they had. Hearts were broken to hear of his passing but at the same time so full of his memories ... how lucky you were to have him in your lives .
Judie Hansen
layton, UT
Valerie and all of Rhead's family, to include life long friends: I share your enormous loss and send my love and condolences. Rhead was a happy force of nature, loving, loyal, and a genuine friend. I am so happy to have visited with you all just a couple of years ago and I cherish all the memories of our years of knowing each other. Love to you all, Scoot
Martha P. Jax
mobile, AL
We were so blessed to get to know Richard when we moved in to Maple Ridge. We will never forget the kindnesses that he (and you Valerie) showed to Ellen when we adopted her from China and she was so little. How she loved going to your home! Richard was always a bright light in the Maple Ridge community. His humor and his spirit will be missed!
Kristen Keefe
salt lake city, UT
Richard and I met when we were 12 years old. Five minutes after we met, we were in the ally behind his house in a fist fight. After the fist fight, we looked at each other and smiled. Thus, began a friendship that lasted 63 years. During all those years he was, to me, the most loyal, amusing, and smart friend I could ever have wished to have. The language of friendship is written most clearly in memories, and the memories of Richard that reside in my heart are too numerous and wonderful to count. Thank you, ole buddy--for everything! May you Rest in Peace. rj
Richard Jacques
layton, UT
Richard always made me laugh. He was so much fun to work with. He came by our house to help set up our computer one time and the payment required...a glass of wine. I have not seen him for years, but he will be missed.
susan swenson
millcreek, UT
Dear Val and family, so very sorry to read of Richard's passing. He was always such a fun and vibrant guy. Such a favorite of my mom and dad. We have warm memories of such special times with all of you. We send our love and condolances to you and your family.
Pennie Birdsall
midvale, UT
Dear Valerie & family, Richard was a delight to work with. His sharp wit & fun personality will be missed. My deep condolences during this difficult time. RIP Richard, we love you.
Marjean Pahl
salt lake city, UT
See you later Richard. You leave us wanting to hear your contagious laugh and zany takes on life. I enjoyed knowing and working with you at Western and Delta Airlines.
James Herbers
west valley, city, UT