Richard was born on October 20, 1954, and went to that big mountain in the sky on September 17, 2016, doing what he loved most, hiking with his best friend, Keith.
Richard grew up in Spanish Fork, Utah, which laid the groundwork for all his interests that would come along later in life. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from Weber State University with a bachelor's degree in computer science. He loved working with computers and could puzzle out any issue. His system at home was a marvel to behold (which his partner, Lesli, is still trying to sort out). While he loved working in the software and computer industry, he was looking forward to taking an early retirement so he could spend more time doing what he loved … hiking, skiing and gardening.
Known to family and friends by his nickname, Eli, he was a dear friend, wonderful companionand good father. You could tell by his stories thathis children and grandchildrenwere the most important part of his life and he made sure nothing got in the way of that. He loved his home life, as well, and it was always a high priority. Trying to get him further way than 50 miles wasn\t an easy task for anyone, and he was always happy to be heading back.
As an avid hiker and skier, he knew the Wasatch well and made an effort to get out at least once a week to do those activities and interact with friends. He also loved photography, music and offbeat movies, which he would often quote to break up awkward conversations.
He had many interests in life, with a knack for many domestic hobbies,ranging from car repair and brewing to rug weaving. Gardening was perhaps one of his most favorite, and he grew an abundance of fruits and vegetables and he loved to share the bounty with family and friends.
Above all else, Eli was a good and honest man. He was unique, kind, funny, curious, multitalented and always trying new things. He had an insatiable appetite for learning, resulting in a vast amount of knowledge on a broad range of subjects, and was always happy to share what he knew.
He is survived by his loving partner of over 10 years, Lesli, his son Shahn (Brooke) and daughter Hanah (Paul) Warburton, grandchildren Takoda, Kyler, Lucy, Walker, and Eva, sister Karen (Max) Spackman, and many friends, as well as his and Lesli's "fur kids", Smoky, Ted, Sadie and Little Dude (his favorite).
Preceded in death by his parents, Ross and Irene Ellis, stepmother Edith, and half-brother Arden, as well as his oft-remembered and still very much loved dogs, Buttercup and Peaches.
He will be deeply missed by family and friends, for whom a private gathering will be held at a later date. Until we meet again, my love. XOXO
