Richard “Rig” Kesler Walkingshaw “Coach”
On Tuesday December 06, 2022, Richard “Rig” Kesler Walkingshaw passed away peacefully, at home, surrounded by his family, 3 days before his 95th birthday. Richard was born in Salt Lake City on December 9, 1927, to George Alexander and Myrtle Sarah Kesler Walkingshaw.
He graduated a South High Cub in 1946. In his early life he played pro baseball in the farm system for the NY Yankee’s organization. He retired to care for his family back home but was a pinstripe fan for life.
On February 19, 1950, he married the love of his life, Sharee C. Howlett. They celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary on February 19th, 2020.
Rig and Sharee shared 5 children. Richard (Shauna), David (Lori), Gordon (Susan), Tom (Rose), & Shellie (Ken). They had the pleasure of enjoying 9 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren and 3 great, great grandchildren.
Richard was heavily involved in the WBBA for many years as a coach, teaching young boys the skill, discipline, and sportsmanship of organized baseball. He found much joy in sharing the sport that he loved. He continued to watch the Little League World Series throughout his life.
Richard worked for Garrett/ANR Freightlines for 41 years before retiring and enjoying traveling, camping, and fishing with Sharee.
Rig loved sports, working in his yard, spending time in the mountains with Sharee and most of all, he loved his family. He was truly our family’s treasure.
Richard is survived by his children, Richard (Shauna), David, Tom (Rose), Shellie (Ken), daughter-in-law Susan, and sister Shirley. He was preceded in death by his wife Sharee, their son Gordon, granddaughter Andrea, and daughter-in-law Lori.
A very special thank you to our family angel, Emma Walkingshaw Kelson for her hours of love, support and unrelentless care giving to her grandpa in his final days with us.
Services will be held on Monday December 12, 2022 where friends & family can call from 1:00 – 2:30 PM. Graveside services and interment will be at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 East Dimple Dell Road (10600 South), Sandy, UT 84092.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Richard’s name to no-kill shelter, Second Chance for Homeless Pets
.