Budd M Rich

On the beautiful, crisp, Star Valley morning, of January 24, 2020, in his home that he described “as his little piece of heaven on earth”, our Dad, friend, and hero peacefully graduated from his earthly probation with honors, to be reunited with his angel wife Jean.  At his side was his favorite nurse and his family. Also anxiously awaiting his arrival above were his sons Steve and Todd, his daughter Lisa; Son-in-law Kim, and Grandchildren Shane, Wesley, and Camila. His parent Elmo and Bertie, his brothers, Glen (Norma), Dean (Pat, Kitty), Rex, twin brother Bob, and sister Ruby (Glen); and life time friends Norm, Pete, LeRoyce, & Lamont.

Dad was born November 12,1931, in Afton, Wyoming. Graduated from Star Valley High School 1950, where he led the Braves basketball team, with his cousin, Lyle (the Rich brothers) to many championships.He loved the game and was an avid sports enthusiast. After high school he continued to play church ball, and played on a senior olympic team. He was recruited to play for Ricks College, but chose to marry our mother instead. He remained SVHS’s most dedicated fan until his passing, and now has the best seat in the house.

He married his loving wife Lora Jean Walton, in the Logan temple November 1, 1950. To their union were born seven children Tanna, Steve, Jewel, Crystal, Todd, Jody, and Lisa. From this union their posterity has grown to a five generation total of 162, and growing.

In 1955 he moved his family to Utah in pursuit of a trade in which he could support them well. He attending Salt Lake Community College’s Plumbing Trade program, and apprenticed for Herb Towers Plumbing.  He worked as a plumbing contractor for over 45 yrs. Owed and operated Budd Rich Plumbing in Utah. During his time there he served on the West Valley Planning and Zoning Commission, and Home Builders Associations.  Retired and sold his business in 1996 allowing him to return home to his beloved Star Valley.

Dad’s love of God was matched only by his love of family.  His life was dedicated to serving both. His life was blessed by service in the Stake Presidency in Granger, Utah, 14 yrs as a bishop, temple worker, and missions culminating with his mission with mom to Johannesburg, South Africa. One of his most loved opportunities was his long time associating with Conn and Del, as they mentored, taught, and trained numerous scouts.

He is survived be his children Tanna Williford (Dave); Crystal Burgess (Randy);  Jewel Smith; Jody Rich (Mandy); Daughter in law Dorlene Rich; 31 Grandchildren, 71 great-grandchildren, and 11 great-great grand children. Sister Ruth Clark. Brother in laws Darrel Walton; Allen Walton (Jana) and Sister in Law Ellen Moyes (Lew). 

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith. " 2 Timothy 4:7

Funeral services will be held Saturday February 1, 2020 at 1200 in the Salt River Ward of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Viewing prior to service from 10:00-11:45. Night viewing at Schwab Mortuary Friday January 31st, from 6:00-8:00 pm.