RICHARD HIGGINBOTHAM

RICHARD HIGGINBOTHAM Richard (Rick) Fred Higginbotham died Sunday, November 2, 2025, with family beside him in Highland, Utah. He was 76 years old. Rick was born to Ethel Jean Smith Higginbotham and Kenneth Orr Higginbotham (both deceased) on August 18,1949, in St. Anthony, Idaho. He grew up with seven siblings in St. Anthony and Twin Falls, ID. While attending Utah State University, Rick met his future wife, Michelle Dunn Higginbotham (deceased), daughter of Lila Marie Allred and John William Dunn Jr. (both deceased). Rick and Michelle were life-long members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and were sealed to each other in the Logan Utah Temple in December 1973. They raised their five children in Kamas, UT, Farmington, MO, and Richfield, UT; Rick relocated to Highland, UT, a few years after Michelle died in 2021. "Ranger Rick" worked in forestry and fire management for the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management for more than 35 years. Early in his career while working seasonal positions in Idaho, he developed a deep connection to wilderness and his beloved Sawtooth Mountains. In addition to sharing his love of the outdoors with his family, Rick dabbled in photography, took pride in gardening, enjoyed taking walks, and loved listening to music. He was continually engaged in church service and callings, including Branch President in Fredericktown, MO, and Bishop ("BishopRick") in Farmington, MO. He and Michelle served a church mission in Brookings, Oregon, from October 2010 to April 2012. Rick's greatest devotion was to his family. No matter where he found himself, it was certain he was anticipating the next time he could get back to his wife and kids. Rick had a warm, quiet presence but could also crack up a room with his quick wit. He thought deeply and was an insightful teacher. He was considerate and kind to everyone around him. He was a devoted husband, a constant presence for his kids, and a supportive and attentive grandpa. Rick is survived by his five children: Holden (Nicole), Dylan (Leah), Tanner (Carrie), Hana Benson (Nic), and Cabe (Tristan); 14 grandchildren: Olivia, Gage, Liam, Nash, Julian, Belen, Hendrix, Summer, River, Lennon, Luca, Lila, Josie, and Ben; and six siblings: Kenneth, Jana, Jeffrey, Joni, John, and David. He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, and his sister Jocelyn. Holden: "Dad, you've been such a steady, strong, loving father. I will be eternally grateful for you." Dylan: "Dad, during your last few months, I learned so much from you. I saw how fiercely independent you were even when you were confused, fragile and lonely. I was blown away by how much trust you placed in me. When I helped you take care of mom when she was dying, I didn't know how much you did for her until I watched after you. Caring for you gave me a deeper appreciation for the love and strength you showed mom. One night, just before you became unresponsive, I stayed up with you while you were sick. I rubbed your back and held you, wishing I could take the pain away. When you finally collapsed from exhaustion and fell asleep, I knew you were near the end. It was heartbreaking, but I'm grateful I was there to comfort and love you through your suffering. It wasn't easy being your caregiver. Even at the end you were a stubborn man. There were moments of frustration and sadness, watching you struggle to stay in control even when you couldn't. But I'm thankful I could take care of you. It was the hardest and most meaningful gift I've ever been able to give. I was able to give that special gift because of what you taught me. You taught me to love unconditionally. You taught me to work hard. You taught me to be there for someone at their lowest. Thank you Dad, I love you." Tanner: "Dad, thanks for sharing your favorite songs with me. Thanks to you and Mom for being such fun travel and hiking companions. Thanks for opening up about yourselfit's helped me understand myself. Thanks for showing me how to work hard and to take pride in doing things well. Thanks for leading by quiet example instead of through loud commands. Thanks for showing me how to be a true partner to my wife. Thanks for making us laugh so much. I love you." Hana: "We are going to miss you, Dad. There are so many things that will remind us of you-a Seinfeld episode, the ESPN theme song, time spent in the mountains, Sunday dinners, classic rock on the radio, or a bluegrass tune playing in the background. You'll always be a part of those moments and forever in our hearts." Cabe: "I remember a time camping with just Mom, Dad, and me. Something drew Mom away, and Dad and I were able to talk alone. He shared with me about his dad passing and how it affected him and how much he loved him. Hearing that, and seeing his examples of love, have had so much impact on my life and how I treat others. He was the greatest loving example in my life." A small graveside service is scheduled for 11 am on Friday, November 7, 2025, at Richfield City Cemetery in Richfield, UT (780 N Main St). In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to projectlinus.org. Rick's wife, Michelle, donated many blankets to this organization.