Sheldon Richins

Sheldon D. Richins, 84, passed away June 29, 2020, at home surrounded by his loving family to join his wife, Nancy.  Sheldon was born June 20, 1936 in Henefer, Utah, the youngest son of Horace Hillman and Elsie Maud Dawson Richins.  He was adored and loved being the youngest with three older brothers.  He had a wonderful childhood growing up in Henefer, chasing with his many cousins and friends creating havoc wherever they went.  There was always a story to tell of their many shenanigans.

Sheldon met the love of his life, Nancy Mae Feaman, in Morgan, Utah.  They fell in love, married and raised a family of two girls and two boys. Dad and mom were very blessed to grow up and grow old together.

Dad enjoyed a very active and community involved lifestyle.  He was an influential educator at North Summit for 20 years, creating great memories with many students.  He felt this was a special experience working with the young people of our area.  While in the school system, he had the opportunity to serve on Region 9 and 13 Board for the Utah State Activities Association.

After retirement, he was a Summit County Commissioner serving the people of his county for 12 years.  Because of his levelheadedness and quick thinking, he was essential in aiding Summit County in many beneficial programs.  This opportunity allowed him to serve as president of the Utah Association of Counties.   He met many good people in all 29 counties of Utah.  Sheldon served on the National Farm Credit Council in Washington D.C. for many years.  He also served on the Board of Directors for US AgBank in Wichita, Kansas.  With these positions, he had the opportunity to help agriculture in rural America, which he was very passionate about.

He, along with his sons, were in the cow/calf beef business.  Ranching was his way of life; what he enjoyed on a daily basis. Great memories were created with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren because they were always encouraged to tag along with him on the ranch from chasing cows, burning ditches, fixing fences, taking salt out, and even as he used his horse to pull those kids through the snow on sleds in the winter.   He loved good horses, a good hat, and always had a pair of leather gloves in his back pocket.

Dad had a strong testimony of his Savior Jesus Christ and strived to live his life accordingly.  He was a scriptorian and teacher leading by example.  Highlights of his life were serving as Henefer 2nd Ward Bishop, a member of the high council of the Coalville, Utah Stake, and branch president at the Summit County Jail.  He and Nancy served a mission to British Columbia, Canada.

Dad was always there for a good laugh and good time. All his family enjoyed his company and will miss him greatly.  He and mom leave a huge void in our lives.  We pray we can continue to live as they lived.  To love as they taught us to love, so that we can all be reunited once again.

Sheldon is preceded in death by his wife Nancy of 64 years, his parents, his brothers and their spouses, Lamont (Althea) Richins, Mervin (Marie) Richins, and Harold (Darlene) Richins, a grandson Jeffrey Richins, and a great-granddaughter, Raelynn Richins.   Those left to carry on his legacy are:  Kathy (Jon) Stephens, Henefer; Joyce (Rex) Housley, Henefer; Dan (Bonita) Richins, Richmond; and Kirt (Raegan) Richins, Henefer; 18 grandchildren and 39 great-grandchildren.

The family would like to thank the caregivers of Symbii Home Health and Hospice, Sharee and Candance, and Visiting Angels, Savanna and Betty, for their kind care, enabling dad to remain at home.

A viewing will be held at the Henefer Church Wednesday, July 1 from 6:30-8:30 p.m., and Thursday, July 2 from 9:45-10:45.  A private family funeral will follow at 11:00 a.m.

Interment Henefer Cemetery.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.walker-mortuary.com