Obituary published on Legacy.com by Wing Mortuary - Lehi on Oct. 25, 2025.
Richard Ernest Oliver, 79, of Tremonton, UT, passed away on October 23, 2025.
Richard was born on June 6, 1946, to Ernest Charles and Emily Myrtle Oliver (neé Smith) in Murray, UT. After he graduated from Lehi High School in 1964, Richard enlisted in the National Guard. Later, he devoted his career to being a geological surveyor at Kennecott Copper and Barrick Gold Mine. His passion for working outdoors and surveying was evident throughout his decades-long career.
On November 11, 1966, at 20 years old, he married his first love, Christine Thomas, at the Salt Lake City Temple. Christine's gentle nature and artistic pursuits were Richard's perfect complement. Soon after, they moved into their beloved home in Lehi. Richard and Christine went on to have five children: Richard, Stephanie, David, Kelly, and James.
While living in Lehi, Richard served as president of Lehi City Baseball for several years. He was instrumental in the organization's growth. He was also active in Boy Scouts, serving as a Scout Cook on many campouts. His outdoorsmanship and dedication to Scouting led him to achieve the illustrious Silver Beaver Award.
Aside from his involvement in Boy Scouts and community sports, Richard was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who diligently served in many callings within the church.
In 1999, after the tragic loss of their daughter, Richard and Christine also lovingly raised their three grandchildren: Dustin, Hope, and Toni. Richard's commitment and love for his family are especially evident in the profound influence he had on his children and grandchildren.
In 2003, his beloved wife Christine passed away suddenly from a brain aneurysm.
On November 13, 2004, Richard married Marilyn Christensen, a companion by his side for the rest of his life, at the Timpanogos Temple. Rick and Marilyn devoted themselves to raising their grandchildren after Christine's passing, giving them an abundance of love, stability, and guidance. Marilyn's adventurous spirit was ideal for the couple's scenic road trips along the West Coast and across the nation. Their shared love of gardening and appreciation for nature made Tremonton the perfect place to retire.
Richard will always be remembered as a hard-working, loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather with a quick wit and a dry sense of humor. He was happiest when surrounded by his family, especially his grandchildren.
Richard is survived by Marilyn B. Oliver, Richard (Melanie) Oliver, David (Jodi) Oliver, Kelly (Melinda) Oliver, James (Kristin) Oliver, Dustin (Chelsey) Carter, Hope (Ty) Groesbeck, Toni (Rebecca) Ryan, 30 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his wife, Christine Thomas Oliver, and his daughter, Stephanie Hope Oliver.
A viewing will be held on Tuesday, October 28, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Wing Mortuary (118 E Main St,
Lehi, UT 84043). Funeral services will be held Wednesday, October 29, at Sego Lily Ward (880 N 700 E,
Lehi, UT 84043). A viewing will be from 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. with a funeral service beginning at 11:00 a.m. Interment will be at Lehi City Cemetery.
Richard's family would like to extend a special thanks to Tremonton 5th Ward, Sego Lily Ward, and Shaylee and T.J. Voss for all the love, care, and support over the past five years.