Richard Van Deveraux April 22, 1953 - October 23, 2024

Richard Van Deveraux was born on April 22, 1953, to Richard (Dick) and Mary Deveraux. He passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 23rd, 2024. He was the second of six children and the firstborn son, named after his father and his maternal grandfather, Van Vance. Known to all simply as Van, he grew up in Pleasant Grove, where he famously rode his “super rat” motorcycle through the halls of PG High School on testing day during his senior year.

After graduating, Van worked at Walker’s Gas Station in Lindon and in roofing. He served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Finland from 1972 to 1974. Upon returning home, he followed in his father’s footsteps and began working for Utah Power and Light in 1975, eventually becoming a journeyman lineman and substation journeyman. He dedicated 44 years to the company, retiring from Rocky Mountain Power in 2019.

In 1975, he married Toni Fitzgerald, and together they raised four children. After their divorce, Van dated Janet Jones from Utah Power and Light, and they were married in October 2000.

A devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Van’s testimony profoundly influenced his life. He held numerous leadership positions within the church and served alongside Janet in the Payson Temple from 2017 to 2019. He was particularly passionate about working with the youth and spent many years in the scouting program. His commitment to service extended beyond the church; he was always ready to help others, often putting their needs before his own.

Van had a vibrant sense of humor, loved teasing friends and family, and was known for his exceptional woodworking skills, which he learned from his father. His garage, transformed into a workshop, was a testament to his love for creating and sharing handmade gifts. He relished the outdoors, engaging in activities such as hiking, biking, downhill and skate skiing, rock and ice climbing, and spelunking, often encouraging family members to confront their fears alongside him. Traveling with Janet brought him immense joy, with Yellowstone being their favorite destination. They cherished their trips there with friends and also created lasting memories during a tour of Israel.

Van’s absence will be deeply felt by all who knew and loved him. His vibrant spirit has left a significant void in our lives. He is survived by his wife, Janet Deveraux; siblings Marcia (Steve) Margetts, Stan (Sonya) Deveraux, Gary (Debbie) Deveraux, Dixie (Alan)Young, and Angie (Teddy) Howard; his children Rachael (Michael) Norman, Nicki (Todd) Shearer, and Mckay (Heather) Deveraux; 23 grandchildren and three great grandchildren. He is now reunited in spirit with his son Tyler, his parents, and two nephews who preceded him in death.

We love you, Van, and will forever cherish our memories with you until we meet again. “Great linemen never die; they just climb a little higher.”

Van’s Creations

To honor Van’s giving nature and creativity, please bring any item(s) (or printed picture) that Van made for you. We want to display these beautiful items at the funeral for everyone to see. (You will get them back;).

Shared Memories

Please click here to share your favorite memories and pictures with his family so they can cherish these heartfelt and humorous memories with you.

Funeral Location & Time

The funeral will be held at the Payson Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saint building located at 586 West 1750 South, Payson, Utah 84651 on Saturday, November 2nd, 2024. A receiving line will be from 10-10:45 am,  with the funeral starting at 11:00 am.

If anyone would like to attend via zoom mtg, please use the following link:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89163120596?pwd=4w7PlHHWPTpoOz0cjxx8318onequkb.1

If you are unable to attend but would still like to view the funeral online later, please text Janet.