Kenneth John Richards

Kenneth John Richards 1921 ~ 2006 Kenneth John Richards was reunited with his eternal companion, Vera, July 14, 2006. He passed peacefully with loving family at his side. Born Sept. 2, 1921 in Sunnyside Utah to John Henry Richards and Evia May Olsen. Married Vera Elva Rogers in the Salt Lake Temple Jan. 30, 1947. They were the parents of six children, Diana (DelRay) Gardner, Michael (Myrna) Richards, Scott (Kathy) Richards, Karen (Paul) Searle, Ken (Tammy) Richards, and David (Susan) Richards; also 28 grandchildren, and 22 great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by his wife, Vera; parents; stepfather, Charles Fietkau; brothers, Tom, Bob, Jerry, Dale, Billy; sister, Betty; and granddaughter, Rachelle. Survived by his sister, Beverly. He was a farmer in Mountain Home, also working many other jobs to make ends meet. Forced by health problems to move to the Salt Lake valley he worked for a glass company and lived with his family in Sandy. A devout member of the LDS church, he served in many callings including bishop in Mountain Home at the age of 31, and many years as ward clerk in Sandy. He served in the military during World war II as a medic/nurse in England, France and Austria. The things he saw and experienced there haunted him all of his life. He loved to read until he lost too much of his vision, and he loved to hunt and fish, to go on long walks which he did until almost the end, even when it took two canes to balance him, and to raise beautiful roses and vegetable gardens. He loved to play with his grandchildren. His primary concern the last few years was to be reunited with Vera and to have an opportunity to teach his family on the other side of the veil. He was a quiet, gentle, unassuming man who will be remembered for his quick smile and firm handshake, his devotion to Vera and his family, and for his strong testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Many were blessed by his quiet strength. His funeral will be held Tuesday, July 18th, 12 noon at the Willow Canyon 1st Ward, 9636 South 1700 East, Sandy. A viewing will be held one hour prior to the funeral. Interment, Utah Veterans Memorial Park.