Melva Richens' Obituary
Melva Richens, 83, of Eden, Utah, passed away on March 7, 2025, in Ogden, Utah, with her daughter by her side, after a long battle with dementia.
Melva was born on March 23, 1941, in Arcadia, Utah, to Lenar and Dena Richens. Around 1950, her family moved to Eden, Utah, where she attended Valley Elementary and Junior High Schools. She graduated from Weber High School in 1959.
She married Clifford K. Holmes on April 28, 1961, and together they had four children. They later divorced in 1974. She later married Richard Ramirez and was sealed to him for time and all eternity in the Mesa, Arizona Temple. They divorced in 1984, and he has since passed.
Melva will always be remembered for the deep love she had for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was incredibly talented in the arts and could turn any project into a masterpiece. Painting, drawing, woodworking, cake decorating, needlework, and quilting were just a few of her many creative outlets. She had a deep passion for baseball, especially for the Chicago Cubs, and loved attending both her children's sporting events and major league games.
She was a dedicated and hardworking individual, often working two or three jobs at a time to support her family. One of her favorite roles was as a school bus driver for the Weber School District, where she formed lasting friendships and touched the lives of many students. She retired at the age of 72.
Melva was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many roles, including in the Young Women's organization, Relief Society, and Primary. She had a gift for teaching and was known for the beautiful visual aids she created for her lessons. She also spent many years serving at girls' camp, where she was loved and admired for her kindness, faith, and dedication.
She is survived by her children: Annette Piccolo (John), Kaye Sprouse, Bobe Aldridge (Brad), and Joel Holmes (Cyndie); 14 grandchildren: John Riley Piccolo (Leah), Hailee Piccolo, William Lucas Piccolo (Alix), Kyle John Sprouse (Jamie), Kelsie Webster (Adam), Jordan Jay Sprouse, Carter Nehmer, Alexandria Norberg (Cody), John Bryce Ortiz, Cayton Lee Ortiz, Dallin Elijah Ortiz, Kayla Holmes, Jaren Riley Holmes (Ashley), Ryann Baylee Netzley (Nathan), and Randie Jo Holmes; as well as 26 great-grandchildren.
Melva was preceded in death by her granddaughter, Jessica Kaye Sprouse; her parents, William Lenar and Dena Richens; her sister, Verdon Smith; and her brothers, Cecil Richens and Howard Richens.
A viewing will be held at 10:00 a.m. on March 15, 2025, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chapel located at 2900 N Hwy 162, Eden, Utah. A Celebration of Life will follow at 11:00 a.m.
A special thanks to the staff at Lomond Peak Skilled Nursing Facility for their compassionate care and support during Melva’s 3 ½-year battle with dementia.
What’s your fondest memory of Melva?
What’s a lesson you learned from Melva?
Share a story where Melva's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Melva you’ll never forget.
How did Melva make you smile?