Richard Dee Otvos' Obituary
Richard Dee Otvos
December 3, 1957 – August 12, 2023
Richard Dee Otvos known to friends and loved ones as Rick, Ricky O, BamBam, or Otis, passed away on August 12, 2023, in Farmington, Utah, at the age of 65. Born in Los Angeles, California, on December 3, 1957, Rick was raised in Cupertino, California, and attended Monta Vista High School, where he distinguished himself as a talented athlete in both baseball and football, and sang in the Madrigal choir.
At age 18, Rick moved to Utah to attend Brigham Young University (BYU), where he earned a bachelor’s degree, played on the football team, achieved Academic All-American honors, and became a proud member of the Sportsman Fraternity. College years he often reflected upon as among the greatest of his life.
During his senior year at BYU, Rick married his first wife, Mary Ann Ewell. He went on to have a wide-ranging career. After beginning as a police officer in California, a path he left following a serious injury, he returned to BYU as Strength and Conditioning Coach for the women’s gymnastics team while earning a master’s degree. He later devoted nearly a decade to helping others; working as an individual and family therapist, and completing a Ph.D. in psychology.
Rick’s professional life evolved into leadership and entrepreneurship: he served in roles such as Regional Care Director at a residential treatment center, Vice President at a fitness company, Co-owner of a health & fitness club, Managing Director of a youth academy, and ultimately as Founder and Chief Executive of his own consulting firm, where he advised clients in personal development, organizational performance, and cooperative marketing. Around this time he remarried Michelle Bush.
Outside of his work, Rick had many interests. He was a PADI-certified scuba diver who loved the ocean, traveled widely, stayed passionate about fitness, enjoyed theater, music, fine dining, and Sunday football. Always ready with a story, a laugh, and generous hospitality.
Rick’s life also bore many challenges. He battled addiction throughout his life, a struggle that shaped much of his personal journey. In spite of these trials, he remained full of energy and will be remembered for his quick wit, gift of storytelling, and love of making people laugh.
He is survived by his wife, Michelle; his children Shane (Melanie), Tashina, Dallas (Katy); and his grandchildren Amelia, Norah, Josie, Lenox, and Jadee.
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