Richard Orville Chatterton

Richard Orville Chatterton passed away peacefully on May 29, 2025, at the age of 86. A man of quiet strength, enduring faith, and deep devotion to family and service, Richard’s life was a tapestry woven with love, duty, and curiosity.

Born on June 8, 1938, to Orville Edmund Chatterton and Elfreida Johndina Ellefsen, Richard grew up with a strong sense of purpose and a commitment to integrity that would define his life. He served honorably in the United States Air Force, stationed at Fort Hood, where fate introduced him to his first great love, Rosemary McCormick. Together, they built a full and vibrant life, raising seven children: Bette, Rick, Julie, Robert, Daniel, Rachel, and Rebecca.

After his military service, Richard continued a life of service as an officer with the Orem, Utah Police Department, and later with the Utah Highway Patrol. His calm leadership and dedication to the safety of others earned him the respect of his colleagues and community alike.

Never one to stop growing, Richard pursued higher education and earned his Ph.D. from Brigham Young University. He then began a second career as a professor, teaching at Texas A&M University, where he inspired countless students with both wisdom and warmth. Upon retiring from academia, he returned to Utah, carrying with him a love for learning and a mind always eager for exploration.

Richard’s heart was broken when he lost Rosemary, but life granted him a second blessing in love when he met Sue Arseneau. They married and began a new chapter together in American Fork, Utah, eventually relocating to South Carolina. Together they traveled across the United States, seeking out the rich stories and history of the places they visited—living fully, joyfully, and always hand-in-hand.

To his family, Richard was simply the best. A devoted husband, a proud father, and a man whose quiet presence brought strength, peace, and unwavering support. His legacy is carried forward in the lives of his children, grandchildren, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him.

A viewing will be held on Thursday, June 5th, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Wheeler-Sundberg Funeral Home, 495 South State Street, Orem, Utah. Funeral services will be on Friday, June 6th, at 12:00 p.m., with a viewing that morning from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. also at Wheeler-Sundberg Funeral Home. Burial and graveside will be at the Orem City Cemetery, 1520 North 800 East, Orem

Condolences for the family may be expressed on this page.