Richard James Baggs, affectionately known as “Dick,” passed away peacefully on September 15, 2024, at the age of 84. A native of Ogden, Utah, Dick graduated from Ogden High School in 1958 and later pursued his education at Weber State College.

On April 15, 1961, Dick married his high school sweetheart, Kathleen Isabelle Turpin, affectionately called “Aunt Belle.” Together, they built a loving family in Cedar City, Utah, raising four children: Shane, Catherine, Christopher, and Caroline. Dick was also blessed with eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

An avid enthusiast of horse racing, horseback riding, hunting, various sports, and an avid Utah Jazz fan. Dick will be fondly remembered for his vibrant spirit and his unwavering love for his family. He is preceded in death by his parents, James Grant Baggs and Ann Lidwood Johnson Baggs, and his son, Christopher James Baggs.

Richard Baggs, a man of many talents and experiences, embarked on his career in the automotive industry. Starting as the manager of one of his Uncle Ed Baggs’s Gas Stations in Ogden, Utah, Richard soon realized that the constant exposure to grease wasn’t for him. Seeking a change, he ventured into car sales and joined the esteemed Wood Motor.

Driven by his ambitions, Richard decided to leave Ogden and relocate his family to the vibrant city of Cedar City, Utah. There, he found employment at Tri State Motors, further fueling his drive to succeed. His unwavering determination led him to pursue a franchise from Volkswagen, resulting in the opening of his own car dealership, aptly named Auto West Volkswagen.

In 1981, Richard and his family made another move, settling in the bustling city of Murray, Utah. There, he found employment at Ken Garff Automotive, continuing to thrive in the automotive world. However, the economic downturn in the mid-1980s presented a significant challenge. Richard’s entrepreneurial spirit, however, didn’t falter. He transitioned into the funeral insurance industry, taking on the role of a salesman for the Northern Utah area.

Richard’s exceptional work ethic and dedication paid off when he was given the opportunity to open his own funeral insurance office in the charming town of Bosie, Idaho. A few years later, he expanded his business and opened a second funeral insurance office in the sunny city of Tucson, Arizona. Richard dedicated himself to his work until he finally retired.

As Richard and his wife Kathleen’s health began to decline, they made the decision to move to the picturesque town of Helper, Utah. This strategic move allowed them to be closer to their eldest son, Shane Baggs, who had been providing invaluable care and support to his parents.

Richard Baggs is survived by his devoted wife, Kathleen, his three children, Shane, Catherine (Hiltunen), and Caroline (Durbin), his sister, Pat Baggs Scott, and an extended family of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His memory will forever be cherished by those who knew and loved him, serving as a testament to his remarkable life and the enduring impact he had on those around him.

Graveside Service, Saturday, September 21, 2024, 12:00 (noon), Mt. View Cemetery in Helper. The family will receive friends from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. prior to the service at the Helper Stake Center (150 Ridgeway Street) in Helper.

Arrangements entrusted to Mitchell Funeral Home of Price and Huntington where friends are always welcome daily and may share memories of Richard online at www.mitchellfuneralhome.net