It is with heavy hearts and profound sorrow that we announce the unexpected and tragic passing of Kelly S Richardson, a beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle and friend. Kelly left this world far too soon on April 5, 2025, at the age of 47.
Kelly was born on January 21, 1978, in Price, Utah, to Stan and Brenda Richardson, and was raised in East Carbon, Utah, where his love for the outdoors began. Graduating from East Carbon High School, Class of 1996, Kelly went on to attend the University of Utah, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology with a Minor in Chemistry.
Driven by curiosity and a passion for science, Kelly began a fulfilling career in the field of laboratory medicine, ultimately finding his professional home at ARUP Laboratories. As a Medical Laboratory Scientist and Supervisor of Liquid Handling Robotics, he not only thrived in the world of science and innovation but also made everlasting friendships with his colleagues. It was at ARUP where he would meet Lori Worthington, whom he married in 2006.
Together, Kelly and Lori raised three incredible sons, Zander, Jace, and Rowan, who were the center of his world. A devoted and loving father, Kelly made it his mission to create meaningful memories with his family. Whether it was skiing, camping in the desert, paddleboarding, hiking national parks, or piggyback rides, Kelly's joy came from time spent with his boys, instilling in them a love for nature, adventure, and curiosity.
An avid outdoorsman, Kelly lived life on the edge, literally. He was passionate about rock climbing, bouldering, mountain biking, snowboarding, backpacking, camping, and motorcycle trips. Some of his outdoor adventures include summiting Mt. Kilimanjaro, climbing the Northwest Face of Half Dome, and snowboarding Skillet Glacier on Mt. Moran.
Kelly was known for his intelligence and versatility, a true jack of all trades. Whether it was home renovations, solving complex problems at work, or planning adventures, Kelly approached life with capability, heart, and a quiet confidence. His curiosity and can-do attitude inspired those around him, and his humility made it easy to admire and love him.
Kelly is survived by his wife, Lori (Worthington) Richardson; and their sons, Zander, Jace, and Rowan Richardson. He also leaves behind his mother, Brenda Richardson; and siblings, Melodie (Lance) Richardson, Aaron (Julie) Richardson, Lamont (Carly) Richardson, and Misty Richardson. He was preceded in death by his father, Stan Richardson.
Services will be held Thursday, April 17, 2025. A visitation will be held from 9:00-11:00am, at Larkin Sunset Gardens located at 1950 East 10600 South, Sandy, Utah 8409. An open mic celebration of life from 11:00am-12:00pm held next door at Le Jardin located at 1910 East 10600 South, Sandy, Utah 84092, followed by a graveside service. Services will also be streamed via Zoom for those wishing to attend virtually. To watch the services, please refer to Larkin Mortuary's website.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to help with funeral and therapy expenses for the Richardson family:
GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-a-loving-family-after-the-sudden-loss-of-their-husband
Venmo: @loririchardson