Richard Quill Findlay passed away peacefully on September 22, 2024 in Sandy, Utah at the age of 68.

He was born on December 6,1955 in Salt Lake City, Utah to Aquilla Riggs Findlay and Zella Fay Critchlow.

Richard lived his entire life in Salt Lake City, graduating from Olympus High School in 1974. After completing his training in dental technology, he opened his dental lab, Findlay Dental Design. Richard was a successful business owner and dental technician and referred to himself as the “tooth maker.” He crafted crowns and bridges for many dentists in the Salt Lake Valley for over 40 years. Richard took great pride in his work, often putting in long hours to ensure every patient received the highest quality tooth restorations. He found joy in transforming smiles and he felt particular satisfaction in his “tooth tattoos.” For several years, he also owned and operated Ultra-West School of Dental Technology.

Richard treasured spending time with his kids and grandkids. He enjoyed outings to the movies, bowling, rodeos, breakfast at Miner’s Cafe, and family trips to Lagoon. Playing games was a favorite pastime, whether he was betting on 21 in Wendover, shooting pool, playing video games and board games, or engaging in rowdy Nerf gun battles at home. His playful nature extended to singing impromptu songs about anything and everything. Family and friends could always count on a birthday phone call from Richard, during which he would sing them his own rendition of "Happy Birthday.” He found pleasure camping in his motorhome, affectionately named “Betsy,” riding four-wheelers, and singing John Denver songs along the way. Motorcycle trips with his daughters were among his favorite adventures, and he especially cherished vacations to Kanab, the small town where his father grew up.

Richard’s pride and joy were his six girls. He loved them more than anything in the world and often said that everything he did, he did for his kids. We love you, Dad.

Richard is preceded in death by his father, Aquilla Riggs Findlay, his mother, Zella Fay Critchlow, his aunt, Gevene Findlay, and his grandson, Jason Jr. Bigelow. He looked forward to being reunited with his parents in heaven, so we know he is happy.

Richard was a loving dad, grandpa, brother, uncle, and friend. He is survived by his six daughters, Stephanie Findlay (Evan Strevell), Nicole Bigelow, Camie Findlay (Rhys Martin), Alyssa Richens (Taylor), Brittni Clawson (Remington), Cayla Findlay, his seven grandsons, and one granddaughter. He is also survived by his four siblings, Sandra Spencer (Carl), John Findlay (Ruth), Shauna Boyack (Alan), David Findlay (Annette), and many nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to express their sincerest gratitude to all his caregivers and Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Utah.

A viewing will be held from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m., followed by a graveside service at 11:30 a.m. and an open house gathering from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 2, at Larkin Sunset Gardens — 1950 East Dimple Dell Road (10600 South), Sandy, UT 84092.

Everyone is welcome to participate in any or all portions of the event. Those wishing to send flowers, please send to Larkin Sunset Gardens.