Lorn S. Richens

Lorn S. Richens, beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend, departed this life on May 11, 2017 at home. He was born in Vernal, Utah on January 1, 1932 to Orson Lynn and Nellie S. Richens. He grew up in Vernal, Utah, attended Uintah High school graduating Class of 1950. He served his country in the United States Navy during Korean War. Lorn married Estella Jenkins October 12, 1951 then was later sealed July 29, 1954. He was the proud father of Ronald L. (Omar) Richens and Annette R. Parslow McKee. Lorn was an amazing grandfather of Wesley J., Wade L., and Dustin Richens, Jacinda and Carson L. Parslow. His love for his family was unqualified and without limit. Lorn's character was steeped in principled integrity and compassion which he instilled within his family and those countless others who came in contact with him. He made friends wherever he went. He valued education and was a lifelong teacher and learner. He started his Science teaching career in Grantsville, Utah then moved to Vernal, Utah where he would make his home, teaching Jr. High Science till retirement from Uintah School District. In addition to teaching during the summers he was a truck driver in the local/regional oil industry. Upon retirement from teaching and driving his next career for over 35+ years was Agriculture. Stewardship, Conservation and Water Quality of the land for the future generations was dear to him. He loved the lifestyle of the family farm and the opportunities it provided. Estella died after 61 years together. He remarried, Joella (Merkley) Goodrich and for the past 2 years they have enjoyed many drives on the mountain, 4-wheeler rides, eagles watching exhibitions, various airplane rides, a helicopter tour, an Alaskan cruise/fishing adventure and lots of laughs with dear friends and family. An Interest and participation in Aviation throughout his life was Lorn's personal passion. From saving nickels as a young boy to buy an airplane rides. To owning his own PA-12 airplane. Followed by his "Bucket List" ride in a P-51 Bomber at 2016 OshKosh Airshow. Plus his most recent ride and pilot opportunity was to fly yet another PA-12, which was just like the one he had owned. He has had a productive and fulfilling life. Lorn is survived by his daughter Annette R. Parslow McKee (Mike), Grandchildren Wesley J. Richens (Laura), Wade L. Richens (Kristen) Dustin Richens, Carson L. Parslow and Jacinda Parslow. Brother, Dan Richens and Sister, Fern (Jinx) Everett. Second wife Joella (Merkley ) Goodrich Richens. Her sons Juan (Jennifer), Bruce (Karan), Brian (Becky) Goodrich. Daughters Lisa (Carl) White and Amber (Eric) Anderson. 19 step grandchildren and 10 step great-grandchildren. Lorn was preceded in death by his parents/Lynn and Nellie, brothers/ Glen V. and Hugh L., wife/Estella, son/Ron (Omar), son-in-law/Wm. Bart Parslow . Lorn's viewing will be held Wednesday, May 17 from 6-8 p.m. at Blackburn Mortuary, 15 E. 100 N. Vernal, UT. Funeral services will be Thursday, May 18, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at Maeser Stake Center, 2745 W 1000 N, Vernal, Utah. A viewing will be prior from 9:45 to 10:45 pm. Interment will be held at Vernal Memorial Park with Military Honors. Please share a memory at http://blackburnvernalmortuary.com/