Richard Fenton passed away on July 18, 2023, surrounded by family and friends.
Richard was born on April 12, 1935, to LeRoy and Ruth (Miller) Fenton. He was born and raised on the family farm in Rupert, Idaho. He was the number seven of nine children, all of which preceded him in death.
Richard attended Idaho State University in Pocatello, Idaho where he completed the ROTC program. He enlisted in the army and began his life of service to his country.
While attending ISU, he met his eternal companion, Virginia Waters at a YSA dance in Rupert. While dating Virginia, Richard was baptized as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. They were married in the Idaho Falls Temple on August 28, 1956.
Richard was stationed in El Paso, Texas, Atlanta, Georgia, Frankfurt, Germany, Indianapolis, Indiana, and the Pentagon in Washington D.C.
His first child, Brenda Lee (Kirby) Harris was born in Burley, Idaho. Cedric Richard “Rick” (Melanie) Fenton was born in El Paso, Texas. Regina Raye “Gina” (Martin) Jacobson was born in Atlanta, Georgia.
Richard Retired from government service in 1990, and he and Virginia moved back to Rupert, Idaho where he was actively involved in the community. He was especially proud to be president of the Pink Ladies. After 24 years in Rupert, he and Virginia moved to Sandy, Utah.
Richard was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He served in many callings including clerk, bishopric counselor, bishop, and Stake High Council. One of his favorite callings was ward greeter (sometimes self-appointed).
He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, 3 children, 12 grandchildren and 34 great-grandchildren.
Richard will be remembered for his Christ-like attributes. He loved everyone. He was adored by his grandchildren. All will remember his special humor and smile, which he had until the end.
A viewing will take place on Saturday, July 22, 2023, from 9:00 – 9:45 am at Larkin Sunset Gardens Cemetery, 1950 East Dimple Dell Road, Sandy, Utah. Graveside services will follow at 10:00 am also at Larkin Sunset Gardens Cemetery.
Those wishing to view the COMPLETED services via Zoom can click the "Watch Services" button or follow the link: https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/jH90x_-6Z-w97_JZvdi5GsMARZeq3OHp44Y0BOvrIIkYrqwwv-OjKUCyletHdODO.SdG9LzuwH_5W1Gyf?startTime=1690040443000
I remember Brother Fenton in our ward in Maryland back in the late ‘70’s. I was a teenager. Yes, I remember his smile. That’s about all I remember. He seemed to be enjoying everyone. My condolences to the family.
Uncle Richard had a warm caring heart, a never-ending smile and a unique laugh that made you smile. I now picture dad and uncle Richard taking their daily walks on the canal banks in heaven. Reminiscing and catching up on the good ole days. Our love and condolences to all of you that he leaves behind, Aunt Virginia, Brenda, Ricky, Gina and extended family ~ May your memories of him bring you Peace and Comfort. And know that, he and dad are watching over all of us, from above, with grins on their faces (probably the mischievous grins they normally had when they were together).
With all our love, Rhonda & David (the Ronald Fenton Family)
Virginia and family. We were sorry to hear about Richard's passing. He was such a wonderful person. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this time.
Know, Virginia and family, I appreciate you and what you are enduring. How grateful I am to have known Richard, his humor and sometimes him being hysterically funny. Bill also had a high regard for him. I’m grateful to know you, Virginia, and you capacity for being a military wife as well as those pentagon years. I know it wasn’t easy or simple. My best to you and the family now as you go through this new chapter.
Love and regards, Kathy