Richard Leo Kauss

1948 ~ 2020

Richard Leo Kauss, 71, of Riverton, UT, formerly of Ewen, MI, passed away suddenly at home on Thursday, May 7th. Richard was born on October 4th, 1948 and was the son of the late Leo and Edith Kauss.

He worked in the Copper Mining Industry for 45 Years, starting in 1967 at the copper mine located in White Pine, MI. He worked his way through several positions from hot tapper, all the way to Smelter Superintendent. In early 1996, the mine had closed due to economic impacts for the mine, and he then soon accepted a position at Kennecott Utah Copper, and they relocated from Michigan to Salt Lake City, Utah.

He received many awards for his accomplishments throughout his career and all the way to his retirement in 2014, where he was Superintendent of Support Services. Accomplishments include receiving his Six Sigma Black Belt which led to the designing, developing, and implementing the Kennecott Idling Reduction, CNG and electric vehicle programs, along with many other environmental clean air act improvements.

His passions were love of the Green Bay Packers, golfing, and family events such as BBQing on the weekends and camping in the mountains.

Preceding him in death were his parents, and brother James. He is survived by his wife Barbara (Gregory) Kauss, Sons – James (Barbie) of Ashland, WI, Richard of West Valley City, UT, daughter Cherri of Petoskey, MI, 3 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. He is also survived by a sister, Beverly Ojala, of Lebanon, IN, and his brother Bruce (Myra) of Pendleton, OR.

There are no funeral plans, and a memorial service will be planned later. Please share a memory or condolence at Larkincares.com

Richard (Dick) will be sadly missed by all that knew him.


Guestbook/Condolences

My sincere condolences for the family. I’m so very sorry for your loss. I hope it comforts you to know his was a life well lived and he was so loved by so many. May the Good Lord shower you with His Love during this challenging time.
Love Kerry Barkley
Milwaukee, WI


- Kerry Barkley

Dick (Papa Bear) My heart is broken I will miss our Friday morning breakfasts that we have been having for so many years. The times we shared I always looked forward to it. I will miss our discussions from politics to sports to your lawn and camping. The world has just lost a true hero, gentleman and outstanding friend. Rest well my friend you will always be my memory’s. Love you Papa Bear!!! My condolences goes to Dicks family we lost a great man. Dick loved his family he was always telling me how there were doing you could she him light up when he talked about his love ones.


- Perry Brewer

I’m so sorry to hear of your family’s loss. My condolences to everyone! You’re in my thoughts and prayers, may he rest on peace.
Love,
Cathy Flourre and family


- Cathy Flourre

My condolences go out to the family and friends of Dick.


- Cindy Cronkright

God Bless you all, prayers!


- Brenda Robison

So very sorry for your loss, my thoughts and prayers go out to all of you during this very difficult time.


- Brian Fencil

Sorry for your loss.


- Matthew Ringsmuth

Barb,
Sending you and your family our deepest condolences and sympathies. So sorry to hear of Dick’s passing. You all are in our thoughts and prayers.
Debbie and Mike Reid


- Debbie Reid

My heart is breaking for you all! This was such shocking news. I wish I was there to give you a hug Barb! Prayers for the whole family! Love you all!


- Peggy Comparin

First and Foremost. To the Kauss family, I am so sorry for your loss, my heart is heavy for the family. This world is not as great after a great person passes, however, what he has shared and taught will never be lost and will carry his legacy.
Mr. Kauss, I have always respected you and your friendship. I especially will miss when we had our one on ones and you would give me advice and almost liken it unto your family. The way you talked so highly your wife, and proudly of your kids, how happy about your grandchildren will always be remembered. I will forever miss your hugs and telling me your proud.
Oh for some reason I like Green Tabasco now. I still do not like the Packers, and I think I can finally give some sound advice.
Don’t rest too easy, you have more to teach, see you when I do.
Your loving and respectful friend, S.Miner


- Stephen J Miner