Walter Henry Richards

Walter Henry Richards

CLEARFIELD - Walter Henry Richards, 80, passed away peacefully at home, in Clearfield, UT, June 29, 2006, to return to his Heavenly Father. His passing was as the result of terminal lung and heart failure. At the time of his death, Walter was with his loving family.

Walter was born on May 7, 1926, the first son of Henry John Richards and Eliza Julia Peterson, in Tygee, Idaho.

He attended schools in Tygee, ID and Star Valley, WY, graduating from high school and joining the US Navy at the age of 17. He served honorably in the Pacific Theater during World War II, as well as the Korean Conflict.

After his active duty stint in the US Navy, Walter joined the US Air Force. He married Marjorie Kirk in 1952. They later divorced. In 1963, he married Jean Padgett. They later divorced.

Once he honorably completed his service in the US Air Force, Walter became a civil service employee at Hill Air Force Base, serving as an aerial photographer, and later, as a traditional photographer and photo lab technician.

He married Maria de Lourdes Martinez, in Elko, Nevada, on December 14, 1967. Together, they had four sons. After retiring from HAFB, Walter spent his time pursuing his hobbies and interestsa"including motorcycling, drawing and photography. He also worked part-time at both ZCMI and Meier and Frank.

He was a wonderful husband and father, an example to his family. Dad struggled with chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder and diabetes for several years. But regardless of his condition, Walter somehow maintained his quick wit and positive attitude, always demonstrating love and warmth to his family and friends.

Walter will be missed; he was one of a kind. He is survived by his beloved wife, Maria and his sons, Walt (Sandee) Richards, Edward (Carie) Richards and grandson Garrett, John Richards, and Ronald (Paula) Richards and grandchildren, Nicole and Dylan.

His family would like to extend their appreciation for the care and concern extended by Walter's primary care physician during his last few years, Dr. J. Allen Francis.

Dad was preceded in death by his mother and father, as well as both of his brothers, Edward and Leonal Richards.

Following cremation at Myers Mortuary, a private ceremony will be held by his family at the Samaria (Idaho) Cemetery.