Richard Weldon Daines was a gentle soul who touched the lives of many with his kindness and warmth. Born in Provo, Utah on October 1, 1958 to Weldon and Barbara Daines, he lived a life filled with faith, family, learning, and simple joys. Richard passed away May 25, 2024 at age 65 from complications of congestive heart failure.
Richard loved to learn. He pursued his education diligently, earning a BA in History from BYU and a Master of Library Science from Drexel University. His love for history and literature was evident in his pursuit of knowledge and his career as a librarian in the Salt Lake Community College library system, yet he did not boast of his academic achievements. His love of learning was also evident in his love of travel; he was able to visit numerous countries over his lifetime.
Richard found joy in the simple activities of life, whether it be a good book, cheering for his favorite sports teams, playing a friendly game of basketball, trouncing family members in games of trivia, or spending time with loved ones. Despite his quiet demeanor, he had a wry sense of humor, often sharing a witty remark or amusing anecdote with those around him.
Family meant everything to Richard. His love and devotion to his family was readily evident. He cherished his role as an uncle and brother, finding joy in the laughter and shared moments with his relatives. He aspired to be the favorite uncle to all his nieces and nephews.
Richard was a man of faith, quietly living out his beliefs with humility and sincerity. As a young man, he served for two years in the Ohio Cleveland mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He enjoyed his service in the Salt Lake Temple later in life. His dedication to his principles was evident in the way he lived his life, treating others with kindness and compassion, and honoring his parents with love and respect. In spite of numerous medical challenges throughout his life, he carried on without complaining. His death was somewhat sudden, and he will be missed by family and friends.
Richard is survived by siblings Anne (Warren) Cordes, Russell (Darcey) Daines, John (Sonja) Daines, and nieces and nephews Ryan, Elizabeth, Max, Amy, Michael, Natalie, and Erin.
Richard’s funeral will be at 2:00 pm on Saturday, June 15 at the Winslow Park Ward located 3219 South 300 East in Salt Lake City with a closed casket visitation prior beginning at 1:00 pm. The interment following the service will be at Larkin Sunset Lawn Cemetery, 2350 East 1300 South in Salt Lake City.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Utah Food Bank.
Funeral services will be streamed for those wishing to attend virtually. To watch the services, please click the "Watch Services" link above.