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Richard Wilkins Obituary
1952 ~ 2012
Our beloved husband, dad, and papa, Richard Gundersen Wilkins, passed away Monday, November 26, 2012, after unexpectedly collapsing of an unknown cause. He was surrounded by his wife and children who gave him a well-deserved standing ovation.
Born December 12, 1952, Richard married his high school sweetheart, Melany, in the Salt Lake LDS Temple.
He was a gifted attorney, who worked as an assistant to the U.S. Solicitor General, law professor, constitutional scholar, and advocate for the traditional family. He established the World Family Policy Center at BYU, and was the founding director of the Doha International Institute for Family Studies and Development in Doha, Qatar.
He was a passionate actor, having portrayed Ebenezer Scrooge in "A Christmas Carol" at the Hale Centre Theatre for nearly 28 years. Other memorable roles included Tevye in "Fiddler on the Roof," and Don Quixote in "Man of La Mancha."
He served in many callings in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including pianist, bishop, and most recently as a youth Sunday School teacher. His testimony of the Gospel directed his professional and theatrical endeavors. Like Don Quixote, he made his life a "glorious quest," and, like the reformed Scrooge, he honored Christmas in his heart and tried to keep it all the year.
He is survived by his good wife, Melany; his children, Brooke, Brinton (Whitney), Claire (Phil), and Rex; eight grandchildren, Thomas, Daniel, Sarah, Lydia, and James Kenny, and Nicholas, Peter, and Jane Wilkins; one brother; and two sisters.
He is preceded in death by his mother, Marjorie, and his father, George.
A viewing will be held Friday, November 30, 2012, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the LDS meetinghouse located at 2445 North 640 East, Provo, Utah. Another viewing will be held on Saturday, December 1, 2012, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at the same location. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Online condolences at www.jenkins-soffe.com.
His family would like to thank the doctors and staff at the Utah Valley Regional Medical Center ICU for their dedicated service to and loving care of Richard and his family. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Primary Children's Hospital.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Wilkins
Sponsored by Defending the family, father and son, Rome, Provo, Geneva, Oslo, Stockholm, Doha, New York, Sydney.
Bachar Jamali
November 23, 2024
We were in Stocholm, Richard and I, Richard gave a speech at the Swedish Parliament, I joined for a few minutes speech too in one of the chambers of the Swedish Parliament, but back in the hotel before we went for dinner, Richard was writing an email and I saw this picture on his skyp account and i asked Richard, Richard why are you photographed with your hand raised close to your chin and jaw, he said smiling and laughing at the same time, my dear son Bachar, this is to show them that I am strong in defending the values of the family. We went on on many journies Richard and I, on the work of "Defending the family, father and son, Rome Italy, Provo Utah Brigham Young University World Family Family Forum, New York USA, Geneva World Congress of Families, Oslo Family Conference, Stockholm Speech to the Swedish Parliament, Doha Qatar the Family Confernece of 2010, Sydney, Australia" Richard! Richard, I remeber you so often and sometimes many times a day.
" Defending the family, father and son" Rome Italy, Provo Utah, New York US
November 23, 2024
Bachar Jamali
November 23, 2023
So much light, where light is only from God, only God can enlighten our lives with light, love and guidance, I remember you dear Richard
Bachar Jamali
November 23, 2023
Those days, those beautiful days, "like father and son, from Rome, Provo, Geneva, Oslo, Stockholm, Doha, New York, Sydney. 1998-2012" You are always on my mind, and your memory will not fade Richard. How often you said to me, you are a like son to me Bachar, and I miss your words, and I miss you
Bachar Jamali
November 23, 2022
Dear Richard, a silent prayer, light around you, light of love and the good path, father and son, thanks dearest Richard. Bachar Jamali Oslo 23.11.2022
Bachar Jamali
November 24, 2021
Dad, father and son, light, champion of light, teacher and friend for ever.
Bachar Jamali
December 20, 2020
Richard
Bachar Jamali
July 15, 2020
High is your spirit flying the skies
bachar jamali
July 15, 2020
I will always love you, father and son, defender and hero, my second father Richard G. Wilkins. You wanted to visit Syria, you were about to travel with me there, close to booking, that trip would have been wonderful, my parents were so thrilled you were coming, travelling from Doha to Damascus, and I from Abu Dhabi, I pray to see you in heaven, may Allah the Most Gracious and the Most Lenient bestow upon your soul the same you have shown my heart, your love, voice, laughters and tears, genorsity and compassion. How much work you put against corruption and the rule of law, the service of mankind, how much love
Raymond Mutura
July 9, 2020
Prof. Richard Wilkins, I have fond memories of your work in Kenya. You helped us set-up a Network of African Family Scholars. Forever in our minds!
Bachar Jamali
December 27, 2012
You have been a light in our lives
Richard Gundersen Wilkins that ray of Norwegian light
Bachar Jamali
December 26, 2012
Richard, you are that ray of light that shone upon my life, since 1998, Rome, Provo, Brigham Young University, Salt lake City, New York, Geneva, Switzerland, Sydney, Australia, Oslo, Norway, Akershusfestning, Holmenkolen, University of Oslo, Drammen, Stockholm Sweden, Doha, Qatar, and you have even booked your ticket to travel to Syria, i have been seen you shine and seek light, pray, and you have been a good man, a good man, the noblest friend, a man can have, you have been the family and when you raise your hand like you do in this photo, it is to show that you have been up to the task of putting all your life and energy to save the family, and you always believed that God will do the rest, that we only can do our best, and you did so much good, and you certainly did your best. Loving you has been our destiny and missing you will be a part of our remaining lifetime on earth, but wherever I go, you will be with me, and with them, your family, you have taught me to live with no fears for tears, and to speak in passion for the truth, and to hold fast to faith, friendship and love, and there is a secret in this all, a secret that was enacted by God, when in the the Chapter of Light, the place of the friend is defined, just like that ray of light, above those high mountains, you and your family, have been a blessing upon the lives of thousands of people, i dare say the results of your work internationally will benefit humanity at large, with you Richard was plenty of Mercy and you have been full of love and compassion, your tears will often flow as you speak and you feared God and loved God, you have been the most special man I have met, and I am honored, honored to say that I have been your special assistant, in 1998-1999 when you called the world to Brigham Young University for the First World Family Forum, there should be an international memorial that continues your mission, I feel that you will be reading those words, will you not Richard, and I feel that you are still with us
December 7, 2012
Richard grew up just down the street from my house in Cottonwood Heights. I went to school with his aunt Kathy. I enjoyed so much watching him perform in The Christmas Carole at Hale Theater. I was so sad to hear about is death. He did, indeed, have a wonderful life. My prayers are with your family. God Bless you, everyone.
Kathy Thompson
Burke Bowthorpe
December 4, 2012
Brooke, my thoughts are with you during this difficult time. I lost my mother just over a year ago and it's very tough. All my love.
Karen Thorne
December 4, 2012
I first met Richard at BYU's late-summer honors program in 1971. Just out of high school he was an amazing scholar. We met again in New Orleans where we were in the same ward and I was Melany's VT. I have some warm memories of being in their home there. Of course I was very aware of his successes in the field of law, and was always so pleased to see his name in the news for Hale Theater. What an incredibly talented man. I cannot possibly imagine all he has accomplished for good, and how very much he packed into the 59 years he was given on this earth. Willes and I send our love to Melany and all the family. We remember him with fondness.
Jo Aurea Imbong, Esq.
December 3, 2012
As a Church volunteer in the Pro-life and pro-family advocacy in the Philippines, we count ourselves blest for having known Richard and having received his scholarly support for our work. We will miss his presence in the pro-life circuit.
Monica Marks
December 3, 2012
I am so sad. I was just looking for his resume to add some items to a volunteer application I am filling out and found this. I did not know. Professor Wilkins filled in for Professor Griffin this summer for the "Law and Politics" course I attended at UVU and he was so refreshing and such a big voice who always made me smile. He will be dearly missed. Thoughts and prayers going out to his family, friends and loved ones. I am heartbroken.
Ryan Smith
Ryan Smith
December 3, 2012
I worked for Richard during the summer of 2001 (after my first year of law school). He and I attended the United Nations Convention in New York. While in New York, we attended the broadway show "Les Miserables". He cried during touching parts of the show and laughed out loud during the fun parts. His enthusiasm for life will continue beyond the veil.
Marianne Etherington
December 2, 2012
Dear Melany and Wilkins family,
We want to express our deepest sympathy to you at this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you. May the Lord bless you with His comfort and peace.
Marianne Etherington and family
December 2, 2012
I am so sad to read the news of Richard's passing. I will always remember his sweet gentle spirit. Words are not adequate for him. I love Richard and you will all be in my prayers. Dr. Ilhan Yildiz, From Turkey
Deanne Crockett
December 2, 2012
I just had to tell you how grateful I am for his influence on someone who didn't even know him personally. I was so touched by his performances as Scrooge and the man of La Mancha. But most importantly, as a student in Family Life at BYU
I knew well the stories of his stand for families on the international stage. I am so thankful for his life. May God bless you all at this time. Thank you for sharing him with us. Deanne Crockett
Cheree Chappell Davis
December 1, 2012
Melany, what an amazing couple you and Richard have been in all you've achieved together! I moved to Salt Lake in 9th grade and was honored to be cast as Belle, Scrooge's boyhood girlfriend (my brother, Rob, played Young Scrooge!), while Richard was, of course, Scrooge, at Butler Jr. that year! What gifts and talents he freely shared to lift and inspire others! I picture clearly his duet with Gerry Graves in "Man of LaMancha" and the two of you singing, "Do I Love You?" in "Fiddler on the Roof." Those duets have never been performed as perfectly by anyone, anywhere, I'm sure! His flair for the dramatic was a gift bringing joy to thousands. His intellect was astounding, but he was so humble and down-to-earth with a great laugh and smile for everyone. I loved sharing the piano bench at Brighton where I would accompany the Madrigals and Richard played for A Capella in our combined concerts. He always kept me laughing as I struggled to see and play the correct notes. He was generous in spirit and enjoyed people of all walks of life. Richard has been a talented, brilliant, kind servant and friend that I've admired for 45 years! I add my standing ovation, as well! Love and hugs to you and your family, dear Melany!
Karen Loving
December 1, 2012
Dear Melany. John and I are so sad to read the news of Richard's passing. We have such fond memories of the times we shared in your home. What a treat it was for us going to the Supreme Court to watch Richard argue brilliantly. Most of all we remember his sweet gentle spirit. I can't go to New Orleans without chuckling over his elaborate accounts of your experiences there. Most of all I appreciate all the two of you taught me about the gospel of our Lord and Savior. It is hard to believe 25 years have passed since my baptism. John and I love you and you will all be in our prayers.
December 1, 2012
We were at Brighton High together and he made our days of Drama wonderful. Was so gifted and a true man of Light. Wish I had known him better. May God bless all his loved ones. Vickie Massey Hagman
Brian Bean
December 1, 2012
Richard and Melanie were friends to me when I truly needed a friend. 40 odd years ago Richard helped change the course of my life. Time and distance have separated us, but, I cherish his wit,humor,and grace. God bless you.
Kelly Chalmers
December 1, 2012
Melanie and family. We are so sorry. Words are not adequate to express what a great man he was! We loved him and learned from him. Rob has training with Elder Oaks today. I was planning on coming, but woke up to water in my basement and have to handle that instead. We send our love and prayers to you.
Laurie Frost
December 1, 2012
I graduated BYU law school in 2006, a widowed grandmother and student older than Professor Wilkins. He was my con law professor and devoted to constitutional principles. He shared experiences he had with Rex Lee, with whom I'm sure it's a wonderful reunion. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Stewart Paulsen
November 30, 2012
As a youth our daughter Cara Paulsen had the wonderful opportunity to be in the show "Christmas Carol" with Richard. It blessed her life. He will be missed so much. Stewart Paulsen
Richard Earl
November 30, 2012
Sorry and a bit shocked to hear of Richard's passing. In high school, just give the role to Richard and it became his or maybe he became the role. I have not seen him in more than 35 years but can still see him as Don Quixote. He will play a big role in the afterlife, you can be sure of that.
-Richard Earl
November 30, 2012
Sincere condolences to the family. Richard lived a proud life and left a legacy for all the family.
Bruce Gundersen
Kevin Monson
November 30, 2012
I sat in the same classrooms as Richard during law school. We both graduated BYU law school in 1979. That was as close as I ever got to being in the same class as Richard. He was so much smarter, and he worked so much harder, than everyone else that it wasn't fair to the rest of us mere mortals who were stuck on the same grading curve with him. He destroyed the curve. Whenever I am tempted to think highly of myself, I remember Richard and regain my humility.
My sincere condolences to Richard's family.
Joan Van Leeuwen
November 30, 2012
I am Marjories cousin and I have watched Richards career and life from afar. He has done a remarkable job in this life. Please accept our condolences. We are so glad to have you all in our forever family.
Neil and Joan G Van Leeuwen
Becky McLachlan Peterson
November 30, 2012
I think his first talent showcase may have been our ward roadshows. I have always remembered the first time I saw him in Man of LaMancha which inspired me to join the drama group with Mr Sacus at Brighton. His time with the Hale Center Theatre as Scrooge is a legacy. To accomplish what he did in his life with his career and to share each holiday back here with us is a gift I will hold dear. God bless your family with His love at this difficult time.
Ryan Radebaugh
November 30, 2012
Richard had a huge impact on my life. He was my bishop, my director and fellow actor, and my friend. He guided me as a young missionary and helped me to be a better person. He will be missed.
Duane Black
November 30, 2012
Dear Melany,
I'm sorry to hear about Richard's passing. Even having only talk to him a few times and met him once, it was my honor and privilege.
You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
God bless you and your family!
Sincerely,
November 29, 2012
Dear Melany and Family,
You will always be loved because you lived a life of giving love. (and 2 boxes of Orange Sticks) Thank you for being the best neighbor in all the world. Annalee Wood
Richard and Kalley
Kande
November 29, 2012
Melany, Brooke, Rex and the rest of the Wilkins family ~ my heart hurts for you all. Richard will be missed by many, especially by his theatre family. We have lost a great Scrooge but now Scotty has a double and Sally and Grandma & Grandpa Hale can put on an amazing production. May the Lord wrap his loving arms around you all and bring you peace and comfort. Sending you lots of love during this time and always. Attached is a picture of Kalley and Richard that I love.
BILL & BARBARAl COOPER
November 29, 2012
Dear Wilkins family....we were very surprized and saddened to hear of Richard's passing...but he was very dramatic in all of his performances...and we along with you will give him a standing ovation for a life well lived and performed...and soo much accomplishd...in such a short time...we remember him as a small,vivacious youngster in our ward...where he grew up with our children...and touched our lives in soo many ways as did the rest of his family...good, good memories...
Once when he was in our home, we had just been given a beautiful baby grand piano and when he walked in the house he spied it...and with many ooohs and ahhhs...went over to it immediately..We then said sit down,
Richard and play it!!! and he said "Oh i thot you'd never ask...and as he touched the keys it came alive with such lovely music...he was talented in soo many way...what a great person he was in our lives...we shall miss him..
as will the world he lived in...he brought much to it in a way that no other could...but he has already brought light to a new world with
God. love to all the family...
The BILL AND BARBARA COOPER FAMILY
richaredi
we
William Perry
November 29, 2012
I was heartbroken to hear of Richard's sudden passing. He was a dear friend, a mentor and a shining star to me. Melany, our prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time.
Thelma Reeder
November 29, 2012
Melany, To read of Richards passing brought tears to my eyes. I had been wanting to see him for some time. Bless his heart -- He went quickly as did my son, Blaine, a few years ago. Blaine was one of the co-founders of Franklin-Covey and there were five very prominent men such as Truman Madsen, etc. who passed away about the same time, so I was aware that our Father in Heaven needed all these special Spirits for some important task on the other side of the veil. The same with Richard's passing -- He was being called early in life because our Father in Heaven needed him because of his ability to reach others. I was a Missionary "Mom" when he came to us in California after serving in Italy. We loved him and he promised to cook us an Italian dinner when he got home, which he certainly did. A few years ago while he was playing in "Fidler On the Roof," I surprisee him by meeting him at the back door before the program began -- and he shed a tear with me when he saw me. What a wonderful young man he was. We loved hiom dearly. He accomplished so very much in life. Thank you for being such a wonderful wife -- enabling him to serve others so well. I am so anxious to see him soon, as I am 85 years old. Lots of love to you and yours, my dear.
Sister Thelma Reeder
November 29, 2012
I am a past law student who was in classes Prof. Wilkins taught in the late 80s. He performed short scenes from Scrooge and Fiddler for us. I have never forgot him. I have had occasion to seek his thoughts a few times since. He seemed genuinely happy to recieve calls from this lowly minion toiling in the vinyard. He was very helpful, usually with knowledge off the top of his head. I am sad to see him leave and I will miss him.
Kevin Maughan Class of 1989
Marianne Clements
November 29, 2012
Dear Melany and family,
I'm sure you will not remember me, but I had the great pleasure of being cast as a party member in "A Christmas Carol" in 1995. I still have my "penny" and Christmas card from Richard, you, Claire and Rex. I have been looking at the cast pictures, and remembering what a wonderful time that was. I was in the other cast from you, but we all got to work together which is the beauty of two casts. I feel so honored to have had that opportunity to work with Richard and you and your children. I learned so much from working with him. And I often think of your beautiful rendition of "What Child is This." I'm so very sorry for your loss. I understand the pain all too well. My prayers and my love are sent to you most sincerely.
Loretta Tatum
November 29, 2012
I knew Richard well in high school...he was a kind, funny and caring person. He was extremely talented but never flaunted it, and he will be missed. It makes me realize just how short time is to see someone my age pass away. He always made the most of every minute of life, and it is a good lesson for us to do the same.
helen leon
November 29, 2012
I was so sorry to hear of Richards death, I have asked about him each time I was in Provo for PLC meetings and had just heard recently that you had returned or were returning. I have such fond memories of being in Turkey and Hawaii and his getting involved in the American Mothers and the family. When I am in Provo nest spring I would love to get together with you and hear of all you and Richard have done. I am sure he has done a lot of good. May the Lord be with you at this time. Very sincerely, Helen Leon
November 29, 2012
Melony we love Richard and your family. Dave, Kristie & their family will be a great blessing in your life. May God bless you until you are forever united again -- Frank & Sherry Molett
Merrill and Jeanine
November 29, 2012
Melany -
Our hearts are broken - but they are also full of love and gratitude for the many years of association and friendship we have shared with you and Richard and your wonderful children. You and Richard and your children are truly part of our family. We pray that you will feel our love and the love of your Father in Heaven. We know that Richard is safe - and was welcomed home by his Savior. We are grateful for the perfect Plan of Salvation and look forward to the time when the four of us will sit down together again and laugh and talk for hours on end. We love you Melany!!!
Christine and Curtis Cropper
November 29, 2012
We remember Richard as Scrooge in the old South Salt Lake Hale Theater. Sitting right behind the bed, it seemed as though he would jump in our laps. It was great. We saw him play the part a multiple of times.Thank you for sharing him. He brought a lot of happiness to others! That will surely continue on the other side of the veil.
Margy Cook
November 29, 2012
I remember many years ago when I was doing His mothers hair. How much she loved all of her children, and how talented you all were. She was so Proud of Richard when he passed the Bar and was at BYU.
I have really missed your mom , and letting me know what you all were doing. Now Richard is up in Heaven with, Marg and George. What a great Family it is. Always remember I am thinking of all of you, And Melany, I remember how much he loved you and how good you were to him. All Be Good.
Margy Cook
Jeri Judy Strong
November 29, 2012
Sending my love and condolances to Melany and Richards children and grandchildren. Men like Richard are not born everyday.I honor him for the life he lived. I will never forget the pride and joy I felt watching Richard and Gerry Graves singing in the Man of Lamancha @ Brighton. I think the whole school was amazed at the quality of actors in that high school production. Thanks for the memories Richard, now on to better things.
julie bruse-arguello
November 29, 2012
What a great man and actor! Richard inspired us in high school and continued to greatness. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
M Anderson
November 29, 2012
I am so deeply saddened by the passing of this man. The Wilkins family will be in my prayers. The first time I saw Richard was at a little theater on a corner of Main Street, in SLC. I was so thrilled with his Scrooge performace, the engery he had, the joy that it brought, I have not missed the play for 25 years now. He will be missed. God bless you the family at this time. Thank you Richard.
Donald & Laurie Brown
November 29, 2012
Melany and family, Our sincere condolences in your loss. A great soul is he.
Coralyn Smith
November 28, 2012
"What e'er thou art, act well thy part" comes to mind when I think of Richard. In ninth grade he played his first role as scrooge at Butler Jr. High. I was the student director and I will never forget his passion for acting and his love for the part. He was a champion for the family and I will always remember and love him for his work to protect it. All our love to Melany and the family.
Coralyn & Taylor Smith
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