On Saturday, May 6, 2017, Richard Leon Uriarte passed on from his loved ones here to join his loved ones on the other side. He was surrounded by his loving family until the very end.
Richard was born at the Park City Miner's Hospital on November 11, 1947. He was raised and received quite an education in old town Park City. He enjoyed everything those mountains had to offer; hiking, fishing, hunting or just hanging out with his family and friends. He graduated from Park High in 1966, where he excelled in academics and in sports, even mastering the art of his "head fake" to the dismay of most of his basketball opponents.
Richard attended the University of Utah and later transferred to SUU to play football where he graduated with an accounting degree in 1971. That same year, Richard met Mary Carter and they were married (later divorced). Together they had three exceptional children, who brought much joy, delight and purpose to Richard's life.
He excelled at his career in the insurance industry where he earned many top national awards. At the early age of 38, Richard was diagnosed with MS and the disease progressed rapidly. Even through his health struggles, his faith and spirit remained strong. He lived vicariously through his children and grandchildren and he taught each of them many of life's lessons about strength, hope, love, coping with adversity, and the power of a smile.
People from all walks of life were drawn to Richard and he made many long-lasting friendships through the years. You know who you are. Richard always looked forward to your visits, and he valued your companionship and support.
Richard loved sports of all kinds and was an avid University of Utah fan. He enjoyed nothing more than a stimulating game of cards, whether beating the house at blackjack, or a friendly game of cribbage and other games with his family and friends. Although he liked to win, he got just as much joy from pulling a fast one on you if he could get away with it.
Survived by his children: Barbara (Matthew) Rodriguez, Leon (Tiffany) Uriarte, and Jonathan (Melanie) Uriarte. Six grandchildren: Saige, Dominic, Tess, Tomas, Sophia, and Gavin. He is also survived by his sister Sherrie Prince, brothers Michael Uriarte and Howard Uriarte; and step-mother Thelma Uriarte. Preceded in death by his mother and father, as well as his grandparents and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.
The family wishes to express their gratitude for the many caregivers for their tender treatment and devotion to Richard that sustained him over the years.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the National MS Society or another charity of your choice.
A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, May 13, at 2:30 p.m. at St. Mary's Old Town Chapel on 121 Park Avenue, Park City, Utah. Family and friends may call from 1:00 ‚ 2:15 p.m. prior to funeral mass at the Chapel. Interment at Park City Cemetery.
