Events
Visitation
Larkin Sunset Gardens located at 1950 East 10600 South, Sandy, Utah 84092Thursday Apr 17, 2025 9:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Celebration of Service (Open Mic)
Le Jardin 1910 E 10600 S, Sandy, UT 84092Thursday Apr 17, 2025 11:00 AM
Listen to Obituary
It is with heavy hearts and profound sorrow that we announce the unexpected and tragic passing of Kelly S Richardson, a beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle and friend. Kelly left this world far too soon on April 5, 2025, at the age of 47.
Kelly was born on January 21, 1978, in Price, Utah, to Stan and Brenda Richardson, and was raised in East Carbon, Utah, where his love for the outdoors began. Graduating from East Carbon High School, Class of 1996, Kelly went on to attend the University of Utah, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology with a Minor in Chemistry.
Driven by curiosity and a passion for science, Kelly began a fulfilling career in the field of laboratory medicine, ultimately finding his professional home at ARUP Laboratories. As a Medical Laboratory Scientist and Supervisor of Liquid Handling Robotics, he not only thrived in the world of science and innovation but also made everlasting friendships with his colleagues. It was at ARUP where he would meet Lori Worthington, whom he married in 2006.
Together, Kelly and Lori raised three incredible sons, Zander, Jace, and Rowan, who were the center of his world. A devoted and loving father, Kelly made it his mission to create meaningful memories with his family. Whether it was skiing, camping in the desert, paddle boarding, hiking national parks, or piggyback rides, Kelly's joy came from time spent with his boys, instilling in them a love for nature, adventure, and curiosity.
An avid outdoorsman, Kelly lived life on the edge, literally. He was passionate about rock climbing, bouldering, mountain biking, snowboarding, backpacking, camping, and motorcycle trips. Some of his outdoor adventures include summiting Mt. Kilimanjaro, climbing the Northwest Face of Half Dome, and snowboarding Skillet Glacier on Mt. Moran.
Kelly was known for his intelligence and versatility, a true jack of all trades. Whether it was home renovations, solving complex problems at work, or planning adventures, Kelly approached life with capability, heart, and a quiet confidence. His curiosity and can-do attitude inspired those around him, and his humility made it easy to admire and love him.
Kelly is survived by his wife, Lori (Worthington) Richardson; and their sons, Zander, Jace, and Rowan Richardson. He also leaves behind his mother, Brenda Richardson; and siblings, Melodie (Lance) Richardson, Aaron (Julie) Richardson, Lamont (Carly) Richardson, and Misty Richardson. He was preceded in death by his father, Stan Richardson.
Services will be held Thursday, April 17, 2025. A visitation will be held from 9:00-11:00am, at Larkin Sunset Gardens located at 1950 East 10600 South, Sandy, Utah 84092. An open mic celebration of life from 11:00am-12:00pm held next door at Le Jardin located at 1910 East 10600 South, Sandy, Utah 84092, followed by a graveside service. Services will also be streamed via Zoom for those wishing to attend virtually. To watch the services, please click on the "Watch Services" button above.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to help with funeral and therapy expenses for the Richardson family:
GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-a-loving-family-after-the-sudden-loss-of-their-husband
Venmo: @loririchardson
Guestbook/Condolences
Kelly and I worked at Tecan although different parts of the country we commiserated and shared our experiences with problems, bosses, customers and the challenges of the job! Kelly was very talented and professional! Im sure his customers enjoyed working with him. A great guy, always fun to talk with. Smart, witty and as I remember him, always had a smile on his face!
My deepest condolences to Kelly’s family and friends. RIP my friend. Proud to know you!
Kelly was one of my customers at ARUP for about 5 years until we got him onto the Tecan team. I was excited to have him join up with the group of guys we had. At every company event there were a few of us who always hung out together. We were hoping to all get together this year so it is a devastating grief to know we won’t see him again. Kelly was an all around good guy. Always looked forward to hanging out with him. I’m fortunate to have known him and will remember him with admiration. My condolences to his family.
i’m struggling to find the words about this devastating loss of my friend Kelly. It’s hard to imagine this world without him. Heartfelt condolences to his family- his beautiful boys…..
Peace be with you Kelly.
Lori, our thoughts and prayers are with you. We are so sorry that you have to go through this trial. It sounds like Kelly was a very talented guy and wonderful father. You have a lot of people that love you and are there to support you. Let them serve, love and help you. You have a wonderful family that will do anything for you. Heavenly Father loves you as well. Ask for help!
I knew Kelly from our years at Tecan together. He was a great co-worker and friend. I will miss him. Your family is on my prayers.