Richard Dean Orton

Richard Dean Orton, 82, passed away peacefully in Brigham City, Utah on Thursday, June 26, 2025, with his sweetheart by his side. Richard was born in Ogden, Utah on January 12, 1943, to his parents, Raymond and Elaine McArthur Orton. He was raised in Ogden, UT and graduated from Ogden High School in 1961, then attended Dixie College in St. George, UT.

Richard was proud to serve in the United States Marine Corp during the VietNam war era. He worked at DDO and retired with 30 years’ service from Hill Air Force Base. After he took an early retirement, Richard held a myriad of jobs, some that were paid and many that were volunteer.

Richard married LeAnn Thompson on June 29, 1990, just missing their 35-year anniversary. They were sealed in the Brigham City Temple in 2013. Richard was known for doing service and caring for others. He did not have any children of his own, but was a great father to Blake, and adopted several different families.

He served wherever he saw a need and was very generous, sometimes to a fault. Children in the neighborhood would come to see if Richard could come and play and to get a popsicle or other treat. He was involved in Scouting for many years and helped boys to earn their Eagle Scout awards.

Richard was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and truly lived it well. He exemplified ministering and served in the Primary, Scouting, and was Employment Specialist on the ward and stake level. Richard served as an ordinance worker in the Brigham City Temple for five years.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Ken Orton and his sister Margaret Hatch. He is survived by his wife, LeAnn, son Blake (Leleo) Thompson, two bonus grandchildren Zoe and Kai, his sister Karma (Norm) Dahle, numerous cousins and extended family members, along with many friends that he considered family.

A viewing service will be held on Monday, July 7, 2025 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Gillies Funeral Chapel, 634 East 200 South, Brigham City, UT. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Brigham City 19th Ward Chapel, 105 Fishburn Drive, where a viewing will be held from 9:30-11:00 a.m. prior to the funeral. Interment in the Brigham City Cemetery 300 East 300 South.

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