Richard Henry Abelhouzen

Richard Henry Abelhouzen born October 11, 1943, peacefully departed this life on March 1, 2024. Born in Salt Lake City, Utah to Henry James Abelhouzen and Marjorie Rae Earl Abelhouzen. Richard was the cherished baby brother to Shirley and Joann. 

Richard attended McKinley Elementary, Lincoln Jr. High School, where he was Student Body President, and South High School, where he excelled in tennis, basketball, baseball and football, graduating with the class of 1962, where he made lifelong friends. Following graduation, he embarked on a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Southern California mission from 1962-1964. Upon his return home he met the love of his life Carol Ann Dyson, and they were married on March 28, 1968, in the Salt Lake Temple, sealing their union for time and all eternity. Celebrating 57 years of marriage this month, their bond was a testament to enduring love and commitment.

Richard dedicated over 50 years of his life to the collection industry, beginning his career at FMA, Commerce Financial, and eventually joining Larry H. Miller where he forged a close friendship with Larry and shared many memorable moments. Alongside Carol, he ventured into entrepreneurship, owning, and operating multiple successful businesses, including three Taco makers, two collection agencies, North American which they later sold. Their legacy continues with American Management Services, Inc, now thriving into its second generation, marking 27 years of operation this year. Known for his strong work ethic. Richard instilled the values of hard work in his children from a young age, involving them in various ventures, including cleaning banks and office buildings before school. His passion for the collection industry provided a foundation for his sons, shaping their futures in the collection and repossession industries.

Richard found joy in supporting his favorite sports teams, including the Utah Jazz and BYU Cougars, where he held season passes and attended numerous games with his family. Dad was also an avid Racquetball player and could whoop anyone on the court. 

Richard enjoyed family vacations to the beaches of California and his favorite destination, Yellowstone National Park (or as dad called it "jelly stone") for Buffalo Barley Soup.

A devout member of the LDS Church, Richard served in various callings and excelled in "church ball", earning accolades at the state level. His profound knowledge of the scriptures made him a trusted source of wisdom for his loved ones. 

Richard is survived by his devoted wife, Carol, their children Troy (Mel), Todd (Jen), Tim (Desiree), Tara (Dr. Dan) Hallman, along with special daughters-in-law, Karen Bentley and Chalise Sargent. He leaves behind 17 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren, as well as a sister Joann (Gary) Wells, nieces, nephews, and cherished in-laws. 

Richard is preceded in death by his parents, sister Shirley, and grandson Jonah Robert Abelhouzen. 

There will be a viewing Friday, March 8, 2024, from 5:00-7:00 pm at Spilsbury Mortuary 110 S. Bluff St, St. George, Utah, and a second viewing Saturday morning from 9:00 - 9:45 am at the Mulberry Dr. Chapel prior to the funeral service.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, March 9, 2024, at 10:00 am at the LDS Chapel located at 3381 Mulberry Dr. St. George, Utah.

Friends and family who are unable to attend are invited to view the funeral service online by clicking on the link below.

Zoom link:https://zoom.us/j/95240606629?pwd=V1FzMEltRjFvbmVZSk1mY3NBMVBtUT09

Interment will be at Tonaquint Cemetery, 1777 S. Dixie Dr. St. George, Utah, where Richard will be laid to rest beside his grandson Jonah. 

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Dixie Home Hospice and nurses Georgia and Cindy for their compassionate care of dad these past few weeks and acknowledges mom's unwavering love and dedication throughout their 57 years together. Richard's legacy of love, hard work and faith will continue to inspire all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by his family and friends.

Arrangements are made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S. Bluff Street, St. George, Utah. 435-673-2454.