Grant Burbidge Obituary

Grant Rueckert "Rick" Burbidge
1942 ~ 2012
Magna, UT-Grant Rueckert "Rick" Burbidge passed away peacefully surrounded by his family, Dec.7, 2012 after a brief battle with cancer. Born Jan. 26, 1942 in Salt Lake City to Grant M. and Esther R. Burbidge. He was the eldest of four children born into a loving home. Graduated from West High School in 1960, received a scholarship to play football at BYU and graduated from Westminster and Weber State. Married Patricia Lyn Hobbs in March 1968. Together they had four children. Later divorced. Married Nov. 21, 1998 to Ruth Zelaya, merging two families together. Rick received an honorable discharge from the Utah Air National Guard where he served as a Load Master from 1963 to 1969. He served the citizens of Salt Lake County as a sworn officer for the Sherriff's office for nearly 46 years, retiring as a Lieutenant in 2011. His favorite assignments were working as a Sergeant over the west side, Kearns and Magna area and as a Watch Commander over the Jail Division where he often cooked omelets for his crew. He was actively involved in many community organizations including, Magna Mt Riders for over 40 years, acting as President and rodeo royalty, and a member of the Days of "47 Rodeo Committee for over 35 years and the Magna Town Council. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, shooting and riding his horse pushing cattle for the Johnson boys up Coon Canyon. Rick found great enjoyment in watching his grandchildren in their extracurricular activities. Survived by his wife, Ruth; children J.R. (Heather), Marcie (Darrell) Atkinson, Nichol (Jason) Holdaway, Melissa (Ed) Tucker, Claudia (Stephen Jonas) Leatham, Ruth (Douglas) Morazan, Gabe (Brittany) Morazan; 23 grandchildren, 1 great grandchild; siblings, Kathleen (Grant) Peterson, Brinton (Nancy), Milton (Cathy); numerous nieces and nephews as well as many good friends. Preceded in death by parents and a grandson, Brock P.B. Burbidge.
A viewing will be held Wednesday, December 12, 2012 from 6-8 p.m. at Peel Funeral Home, 8525 W. 2700 S., Magna Utah. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, December 13, 2012 at Hunter 1st Ward, 3665 S. 6000 W., viewing will be held 10-10:45 prior to services. Online condolences: www.peelfuneralhome.com

Published by The Salt Lake Tribune on Dec. 10, 2012.
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Rick was best known for his gruff voice which hid his heart of gold. I knew him as a sergeant when I was a rookie reserve deputy for the Salt Lake
County Sheriff's Office. He was certainly one of a kind. Rest in Peace.

Bill Morris

Work

December 4, 2023

What a surprise it was to see this notice of Ricks anniversary notice. I can say I loved Rick. We were neighbors and went to elementary, Jr. High and high school together. We were active in sports, especially baseball. I tried my best to be a pitcher. Rick was a very good catcher. We spent hours pitching the ball. We were on the same little league team. I pitched, he caught. We also played church ball together. We skied together some times. When we were kids we were digging a foxhole and Rick jumped in as I was swinging an ax and hit him in the head. He ran home screaming and bleeding. So if you ever noticed the scare on top of his head, well I did it. After high school, I joined the Army and after that we lost contact with each other. I can still say he was a best friend and I miss him so much. Rest In Peace brother. One day we will meet again. You friend.
Lynn Taylor Jones

Lynn Jones

Friend

December 13, 2019

Un gran abrazo y todo mi carino en este dificil momento, que el amor del Padre Celestial los acompane siempre

Erika Loria

December 31, 2012

I am deeply saddened to discover that Rick passed away. He could be intimidating but always loving, helpful, and caring. I send my condolences to all of Rick's family and know you are comforted by these many wonderful tributes to Rick. You will all be in my prayers.

John Burbidge

December 17, 2012

Ruth and family,
May the Lord give you the strength to get through this difficult time.
Lucy Douroux

December 13, 2012

My memories and thoughts are endless. Thanks for making me a better person.

Our world just changed!

Todd Rasmussen

December 13, 2012

Rick was one of a kind. He was a gentle giant. He will be missed. Nikki and Melissa My thoughts are with you at this time..Al

Al Higham

December 13, 2012

Marcela Noflin

December 13, 2012

I worked along side Lt. Burbidge for many years when I worked for the Sheriff's office -- so sorry to hear of his passing. My prayers go out to his family.
Tammy Hammon

December 12, 2012

Dear Family -

We are so sorry to hear of your loss - Rick will never be forgotten and his legend and stories will never be forgotten either.
Steve remembers playing Little League with "Tank" and winning a trip to play in Billings, MT. accompanying the old Salt Lake Bees on a road trip.
The last time we saw Rick was at the doctors office when he'd had both his knees replaced at the same time! We told him he was "nuts" and he just laughed and said "it had to be done"!
We certainly remember the years we worked with him in law enforcement - him on the 'green' side and us on the 'blue'side....he was always a friend no matter who you worked for. We were all in the same game and were always treated with respect and friendship.
Keep fond memories of Rick close in your hearts. God bless you and comfort you at this tender time.

Steve "Duffy" Diamond and Judy Dencker Diamond - Retired SLCPD

Steve & Judy Diamond

December 12, 2012

I remember sitting with the "Lt." and talking with him in the break room at Old Metro. The next time he saw me, he said "how's the damn Dane doing tonight", that was due to my last name (Danish). He always called me that and we laughed. I respected Lt. Burbidge and enjoyed working with him. Thank you Lt., it was an honor to serve with you at the Sheriffs Office. Rest well my friend. God bless.

Richard Henricksen

December 12, 2012

Ruth, JR and Family, Dan and I will miss Rick so much. We loved camping with you and will forever remember his stories. If any of you need anything please let us know. We will see you tonight and tomorrow to pay our respects. I know he is loved by so many even the ones that thought he was a tough guy found out that he had such a big heart. Dan will miss his coffee buddy.

Dan & Sherry McConkey

December 12, 2012

The Lt. was the best cook in the jail while I worked there. He was a very good and fair leader. The Lt.was a very decent,good man. I enjoyed working for him; top notch.

Jay Powell

December 12, 2012

I am so sorry for your loss. You have been in my thoughts often since Rick was hospitalized. My heartfelt condolences to all of you.

Craig Benson

December 11, 2012

Gabe Britt and family we are so sorry for your loss we will keep you in our thaughts and prayers.
Keith and Shelley Tippie and Merilyn Epperson

December 11, 2012

Rest in peace good friend

Lee Crebs

December 11, 2012

Now you have your dream property. You are unspeakably missed by those left behind.

My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Lt. Burbidge. God's voice boomed louder~Grant, get up here!

~Ann Cardon retired SO

Ann Cardon

December 11, 2012

My heart goes out to you. Ruth (Root), JR and Marcie and entire Burbidge Family. May God confort you in this time of sorrow. To the Burbidge Family remember Death leaves a hearthache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal. While we are mourning the loss of our beloved, others are rejoicing to meet him behind the veil. God Bless You.

Barbara Cruz

December 11, 2012

We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Your family is in our thoughts.

Ben and Caren Watterson

December 11, 2012

Rick, a big man with a bigger heart. I met him in the old metro jail at about 4 AM. I was booking someone and heard this loud thunderous voice say: "Deputy, come back here and see me when you're done." I thought I was going to get yelled at for something. I Found Lt Rick in the old kitchen with his back to me; I said, "Sir..." He turned around, and in his gruff commanding voice barked out: "How do like your eggs?" What a great guy.

God be with Ruth and the rest of the family, during this difficult time.

Craig Watson

December 11, 2012

My deepest sympathy goes out to the Burbidge family. I will never forget waking up early on weekends to look out my kitchen window and see Rick sitting on the patio waiting for the kids and I to come out. Me to have coffee with him and listen to his jokes and the kids to bounce on his leg and hear the "sugar bowl" song. He adored his Grandchildren. I loved going ridding with him up in the mountains. We would listen to Geroge Straight there and back and he would sing along. He was a hard but soft person. He was always sweet to me and I will forever miss his laugh. I feel peace knowing he was greeted by many but most of all my little Brockie. Keep your special memories close to your heart Mason, Samantha and Clay. R.I.P. Rick. Love, Kimberly (K.J.)

Kimberly Loveland

December 11, 2012

He was my LT when I worked in SLCSO records division. Always a smile, a truly nice guy.

Sheila Wahnon

December 11, 2012

Burbidge family, Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you. He is sorely missed already by my dad, Richard. My deepest sympathy.

Shelly ( Fearnley) Christoffersen

December 11, 2012

I hope many memories help comfort your family during this time of grieving. I am honored to work with J R, and wish I would have been able to meet his father. I am deeply sorry for your loss.

Brett Olsen

December 10, 2012

My condolences to the family, Ruth my heart goes out to you. J.R. your father was a great man who was respected by all. Rick always treated everyone the same no matter how many years you had under your belt, but if you needed a boot he could do that to!!
He will be missed. He was the epitome of a Deputy Sheriff.

Paul Nielson

December 10, 2012

May Grant's family be comforted and blessed by the memories of a fine man. first knew grant when I tutored football players at BYU and as a member of the UTANG. Enjoyed his special laugh and encouragement. Maybe he will be my tutor in the eternal guard.

Dave White

December 10, 2012

My condolences to the large family of Grant(rick) Burbridge. I worked with and around Rick in the West Division. He was a fun person but had his serious business side. He done our Office Proud. I feel fortunate to have had Rick as a friend and a fellow officer. May he rest in peace and watch over his flock.

RON- Cranee Cranfill

December 10, 2012

My deepest condolences to the Burbidge family.I have fond memories of the Lt., meeting for coffee at Jim's or the local 7-11. He had a big heart for his people under his command. They are very few XO's like Rick left out there in Law Enforcement. He was about his people

Frank Lucero

December 10, 2012

I am sorry to hear of your loss. May warm memories of Grant bring you comfort at this sad time.

Chris Kontgis

December 10, 2012

May god be with you and your family.

Robert mitchell

December 10, 2012

To the Burbidge kids my friends for many years I felt luckey as a kid to have had all of you in my life and your parents always treated me like family sometimes im not sure if that was always a good thing like when rick couffed me to his car in your drive way and started driving or when he and JR sqaushed me between the screen door & front door hahaha or the trip to golden spike and he and Pat elbowed me all the way there I knew I was loved because your dad said if I didnt tease you that means I dont like you I guess that was true and I am thankful to have known him since I was three yup before I knew you kids Harmons lunch counter was the spot every morning with rick and my grandpa talking about anything and every thing. I will never forget him and will have love in my heart always and forever for all of you. And will have many fond memories of your dad what a guy.
love courtney kristin mitchell

December 10, 2012

Deepest sorrow to the family. Rick was truly an icon in the Sheriff's Office. He helped my career, he helped me personally. None finer in the world. Rest in Peace, & thank you for all you have done.

Richard "Jake" Jacobson

December 10, 2012

My love, prayers and heart goes out to all of you. i am so sorry for your loss.((HUGS) and love coming your way.
I love you guys each and every one of you.
Teri

December 10, 2012

A cops cop, A great man, trully will be missed.

Troy Pilivi

December 10, 2012

Dear Ruth, we are so sorry to hear about your husband, we love you and we pray for your comfort at this difficult time. Art and Lurlene LeFevre

December 10, 2012

Our condolenses go out to the Burbidge Family. It was a great privilege to know and at times work with Rick. He was always fun to talk with, he had a great sense of humor and a big heart. He will be greatly missed. May the Lord bless you at this time.

Kevin and Wendy Gray

Kevin Gray

December 10, 2012

Rick was a great cop and an understanding sergeant when I worked for him as a rookie deputy. He will be missed. They do not make cops like Rick anymore. He will be missed dearly by the Law Enforcement Community, and by the community as a whole. Rick you were a big man with an even bigger heart. You took me under your wing back in the day of me becoming a deputy sheriff. I will miss you my friend and as my sergeant. Deputy Sheriff Paul Fleming 1978-1998. God bless you.

December 10, 2012

My Condolences and prayers to the Burbidge family. I sure miss Lt Burbidge and his conversations of working with his father and the old days of working in Sheriff's department and his visits to the mountains and lake with his wife Ruth. Godbless.

Manuel Gallaway

December 10, 2012

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Rick's family. We hope that God will bless each of you. Feel comforted in knowing that he is with our Lord and his family preparing the way for you.

Jess & Diane Burbidge

December 10, 2012

It's been many years but never forgot you Rick. There are some people who always stay in your memories. Rick was one of those people.

Janice Golding

December 10, 2012

Good bye old friend! You will be missed by all. Even though all the miles separate us our friendship lasts forever. We were raised as neighbors, went to school together, and played baseball together. We were as close as friends could get. Miss you Rick.

Lynn Taylor Jones

December 10, 2012

God Speed old friend. We will miss you. I will never forget the first day we met and worked together.

Stu Smith

December 10, 2012

God speed Rick

Bud Lamb

December 10, 2012

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. He was my Lieutenant at the Matheson Courthouse which was his last assignment with S.L. Co. I also worked over
at the JRC and enjoyed his company very much. It was an honor serving with you Rick.

Officer Dave Graham

December 10, 2012

Rick Burbidge was my first Lt. when working in Records. He was very kind and understanding and I loved visiting his office to hear his stories, wisdom and get candy. I pray for Ruth and family that you have peace that passeth all understanding.

Peace
Veisinia Moungaafi

December 10, 2012

Thoughts and prayers go out to the Burbidge family! I have wonderful memories of "Uncle" Rick when I was a young girl!! Peace and rest to you Uncle Rick! You will be missed!!

Sharon Burbidge/Maxwell

December 10, 2012

We are deeply sadden by the loss of this wonderful Man. He was so thoughtful to Gabe and Brittany and loved little Isabella so much. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Family and our love embraces all the memories we have of having Rick in our lives. We are so sorry for the loss and pray for comfort for the Family especially Ruth during this most difficult time. We love you!

Debi Haaga

December 10, 2012

Rick: I'm sure you've been welcomed by the Rueckert reunion comittee up yonder ...tell them all hey. You will be missed here.

Brent Leake

December 10, 2012

I absolutely adored this man! He made some of my rough days at Matheson bearable. He was an exceptional individual and will be greatly missed!

Mary Bunten

December 10, 2012

Dear Burbidge Family,
Rick was a wonderful man, and a great example to all who had the pleasure of knowing him. He was a dedicated professional who was well respected and loved. We will miss him. Peace and blessings be with yo.

Nick and Zoe Roberts

December 10, 2012

Ruthy stay strong, I know he went through a lot but he is resting easy now. I will keep you in my prayers and know you have many people who are here for you and love and care about you.

Felicia Bench

December 10, 2012

I met LT Rick when i first Hired on as a Bailiff. He Hated being called by his title. "Call me Rick". So i did, and he became Lt Rick. We always talked about cooking great food, you could see the twinkel when he spoke of dutch oven cooking. He loved his camping trips which i suspect was just an excuse to cook. I remember driving past the house and seeing puttering around doin things. I always stopped and talked and if i couldnt at least a wave.
You'll be missed Lt Rick 10-42

Ed Whiteman

December 10, 2012

Rick Burbidge was my sergeant in the Records Division for the Sheriff's office. He had a great personality and kept us smiling. I am deeply saddened for his passing. May God bless his family...Joyce Eckman Snider

Joyce Snider

December 10, 2012

J.R. and Marcie, Your dad was a great man. He will be missed! My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your entire family.

Kathy Kunkel

December 10, 2012

Gruffness on the outside, kitty cat on the inside. Thank you for always having an open door and allowing me to "vent". You were not only a commander but truly a great friend.

Kim Fenn

December 10, 2012

We are truly sorry for the loss of a great guy. Rick will always be remembered as one of the good ole cowboys, as well as a surrogate grandpa to our kids.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Burbidge family.

The Archuletta Family

Deni Archuletta

December 10, 2012

Our Prayers are with you and your families during these sad times.

The Ficker family

December 10, 2012

I am so sorry to hear about the loss of a great man. My deepest condolences to all of the Burbidge family. My thoughts and prayers will be with you. Rick has always treated me well. He even covered a shift for me when I was going through a tough time with my family. He didn't have to do it because he was the LT, but because of his caring heart he did. Thank you so much Rick and thank you for the legacy you left behind.

Mark Haws

December 9, 2012

My deepest condolences to the Burbidge family.I have fond memories of the Lt., meeting for coffee at Jim's or the local 7-11. He had a big heart for his people under his command. They are very few XO's like Rick left out there in Law Enforcement. He was about his people.

December 9, 2012

J.R and Marcie and to the rest of the family I am so sorry for your loss my thoughts are with you at this difficult time RIP L.T

Jim Linton

December 9, 2012

he was the watch commander when i started with the sheriff office at metro /he was over the courts after i retired from the fire dept and went back to work as a psi officer what a great leader super person and good friend thanks for the leadership
RIP God speed my friend a true lawman

Randy Jacobsen

December 9, 2012

My deepest condolences to the entire Burbidge family during this time of loss of such a wonderful man. My prayers are with you.

Kari Huth

December 9, 2012

So sorry to hear about your loss. My prayers will be with you Marcie & J.R

Annette Downing

December 9, 2012

My heart goes out to Marcie,Jr, and their family . Sorry to hear of the loss of your father. You're in my prayers.

mindy gleason

December 9, 2012

I will never forget Rick, though I left the Sheriff's office many years ago. Rick took good care of his men. He above all was a good man. He could keep you in stitches or be professional when the need was there. I love you Rick and I miss you more than I can express. Rest in peace my friend.

Myron Kunz

December 9, 2012

A good man with a good heart. He truly cared about those whom he had charge over. He was a pleasure to work with.

Ron Rook

December 9, 2012

Rick was a great law enforcement leader. He didn't meddle in something unless he needed to, and he always supported his officers. I worked patrol on his shift when he was a Sergeant in Kearns, T-Ville and Magna and he was great to work for. Years later we were watch commanders at the same time and I always appreciated his friendship and support. He always called me "Brother Burton" and had a big smile for me. And he always had a funny story or comment.

A servant to the end, Rick told me several times he would work as a cop as long as he possibly could. Rest in peace Rick, you've earned it.

Unfortunately I will not be able to attend the services as I am on active military service right now and away from Utah. But Rick and his family have my utmost respect and admiration and I wish the family many condolences.

Sincerely,
Andrew Burton

Andrew Burton

December 9, 2012

Thank you Rick Burbidge for all the words of wisdom. I would call you Lieutenant but you hated that.

Scott VanWagoner

December 9, 2012

I have fond memories of the many times when the Lt. Would call me to meet him at "Rocks" for coffee. He was one of the good guys!

Mike Ricketts

December 9, 2012

Rick Burbidge was fun to work for, always fair, an awesome friend, and had a heart of gold. I am so glad I knew him and will miss him tons. My condolences to the family. Rest in peace buddy.
With love and respect,
Carolyn McKeehan

December 9, 2012

It was LT. Burbidge who helped me with my career in corrections, he called me into his office in Draper, Utah and we had a heart to heart talk even tho he didn't know me. After our talk, I knew I could trust him and he was there if I ever needed him in my corner. Rest in Peace my Friend.

Lanice Wong

December 9, 2012

Rick was a great man and taught me alot. Rough around the edges but what a good heart. I enjoyed working with and for him.

Gary Sterner

December 9, 2012

Lt. Burbidge was an officer and a gentleman. He was a friend to those he met.

Bill Morris
Cottonwood Heights

December 9, 2012

A great friend and supervisor , always a joker and kept me on my toes . He'll be truely missed but never forgotten .

Michael Lambrose

December 9, 2012

He was the "Anal Retentive Chef" who'd cook breakfast for all the staff, day or night, when he was our Watch Commander at Old Metro. Waffles,omelets, bacon, eggs, potatoes.....and you could smell the hot sauce all over booking......he helped me move my whole house from one town to the next, he told stories about his family that brought laughter and sometimes a tear to his eye. He was supposed to give me away at (one of, hahaha) my wedding(s) but was on a mountain across the valley on a horse. He was gruff, in your face, but always caring and compassionate beneath. I pray his family finds peace in many happy memories. Rest In Peace, Big Rick!

Carol Saldivar

December 9, 2012

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