Robert Pyper Richins

Robert Pyper Richins, also known as Tracey Gillette Call Jr., was born January 11, 1939 to Tracey Gillette Call and Jeanne Fennigein Pyper.  He died peacefully in his sleep surrounded by loved ones on June 28, 2023, after injuries sustained in a fall.  He was 84 years old.

Bob was born in Pocatello, Idaho, but spent most of his life in Henefer, Utah.  He married Patsy Carrigan Richins on June 5, 1964 in the Salt Lake City Temple.  They were married 59 wonderful years.  She is the love of his life.

Robert was a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, serving faithfully in numerous callings and assignments throughout his life.  He was a diligent home teacher and minister.  He served a three-year mission to the Southern Far East Mission in Taiwan where he met Gordon B. Hinckley.  President Hinckley later performed Robert’s marriage to Patsy, something that was meaningful to him of all his life.

He attended High School at North Summit and received secondary education at Weber State College and his Master’s in Education and Administration at Utah State University. 

Bob worked for the Morgan Utah School System in various roles for more than 25 years, including Principal of the Morgan Middle School.  It brought him immeasurable joy to watch the lives and accomplishments of his many past students. 

Robert also served his country in the Air Force Reserves at Hill Air Force Base, achieving the rank of Master Sergeant.  He loved flying and enjoyed wonderful friendships forged during his service.

Bob was active in the community where he lived.  He was President of the Henefer Upper Ditch Company for many years and was instrumental in building a pipeline that significantly enhanced crop yields for all members of the company.  After retirement, he spent many years as a city planner for Henefer City.  He was active in the National Society of the Sons of Utah Pioneers.  He also was involved in the construction of the new Daughters of Utah Pioneers building in Henefer.

Robert was always mindful of those around him that were in need in any way.  He would go out of his way to extend a kindness, provide support, or lend a hand.  He taught his children accordingly not only by speaking, but mostly by his daily example.

Bob was renowned for his farming acumen, and he loved to be outside working on his land.  He would make multiple trips daily to the farm just to “check on things” or to “make sure the gates are closed.”  He looked forward each year to the activities of each season.  He was fastidious about his farm, his buildings, and his equipment.  In later life, he enjoyed operating a custom hay bailing business.  He loved mechanics and completed several restorations of old trucks and tractors, which routinely found their way into local parades. 

He is survived by his wife Patsy C. Richins, children Micah, Bryant, Natae & Lindsay as well as 15 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son Anthony.

Services will be held on Friday, July 7, 2023 at the Henefer 2^nd Ward building located at 708 N Main Street in Henefer, Utah.  A visitation be held from 10:30 AM until 12:30 PM, and the funeral services will begin at 1:00 PM.  Following the funeral services, Robert will be buried at the Henefer City cemetery, with Military Honors provided by the Ogden Honor Guard Post #1481.

In lieu of donations, Bob would want you to reach out to someone unfortunate enough to own a green tractor and help them upgrade their equipment.