Richard Peterson

Richard Kay Peterson, known to friends and family as Rick, passed away at the age of 69 on December 19, 2024 in St. George, Utah. He was born on September 28, 1955 in Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada, to Russell and Patricia Peterson. Rick's parents were living in the United States at the time but traveled to Lethbridge for the summer, where Rick was born. Two weeks later, Rick and his family returned to Orem, Utah, before eventually settling in Southern California. He spent his childhood in cities like Huntington Beach, Torrance, and Gardena, graduating from Marina High School in Huntington Beach in 1973.

In 1981, Rick married his first wife and became a proud father to three children: Stephanie, Brandon, and Brett. He later remarried and had a daughter, Cobie. From 1982 to 1985, Rick pursued his education in Administration at Cornell University in New York, where he earned his AA. Following his time at Cornell, he decided to follow a different passion-becoming a professional meat cutter.

Rick's career took him to McDonnell Douglas in Long Beach, CA, where he worked for most of his professional life, later transitioning to Boeing. At McDonnell Douglas, Rick excelled in organization and played an integral role in the China Project, saving the company millions of dollars.

Outside of work, Rick was a man of many talents and interests. As a child, he was a member of the Screen Actors Guild and a child actor. He loved to dance, and in his youth, he was named "Little Mr. America," performing at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles. He was a gifted athlete with remarkable hand-eye coordination and speed. Rick and his brother, Mike, even tried out for the California Angels during the MLB Scouting Combine.

Rick cherished his time spent on his grandfather's ranch in Canada, where he worked with cattle and horses, embracing the cowboy lifestyle that he loved so much. He wore his cowboy hats and boots proudly and embodied the spirit of a true American man.

Rick was known for being a family man in every sense of the word. He was a protector, always standing up for his loved ones and making sure they were cared for. He had a deep love for his children and was especially close to his granddaughter, Leah, with whom he shared an inseparable bond. They laughed together, traveled together, and spent daily time together, making memories that will be cherished forever.

Later in life, Rick met the love of his life, Elizabeth. They met at a church dance and immediately felt a deep connection. After their first kiss, they were inseparable, often calling each other "best friends." Their marriage was filled with laughter, love, and mutual respect, and anyone who saw them together could easily see the profound bond they shared.

Rick was not only a loving father, husband, and friend, but also a deeply faithful man who devoted his life to the principles of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. As a lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he lived with unwavering commitment to his faith. His testimony of Jesus Christ was a guiding force throughout his life, and he shared that faith with others through both words and actions.

Rick was preceded in death by his father, Kay Russell Peterson, and his sister, Diane Peterson Wingard. He is survived by his loving wife, Elizabeth Peterson; his children, Stephanie, Brandon (married to Alejandra Peterson), Brett (married to Tania Peterson), and Cobie (married to Chase Stanford); his mother, Patricia Peterson; his brother, Mike Peterson (married to Magda Peterson); and his beloved granddaughter, Leah, along with his nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

A private family visitation was held in Rick's honor on Saturday, December 21, 2024 at Spilsbury Mortuary, located at 110 S. Bluff St., St. George, Utah. Arrangements were made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary. 435-673-2454. Friends and family are invited to sign Richard Kay Peterson's online guest book at www.spilsburymortuary.com.

Rick's legacy of love, laughter, and loyalty will forever be remembered by those who knew him. His life was a testament to the importance of family, friendship, and living authentically.