[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 20 (Thursday, February 5, 2015)]
[Senate]
[Page S829]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 REMEMBERING RICHARD ``DICK'' RICHARDS

  Mr. HATCH. Mr. President, I am grateful for this opportunity to pay 
tribute to a respected political leader, a cherished friend, and an 
exceptional human being--Richard ``Dick'' Richards. A native of Ogden, 
UT, Dick touched the lives of many and was deeply respected for his 
wisdom, his no-nonsense approach, and his remarkable integrity.
  When I first considered running for the Senate in 1976, Dick was 
serving as the Utah Republican Party chairman. At the time, I was a 
political novice, but Dick's early encouragement and counsel were 
instrumental in my candidacy and subsequent victory. I will always be 
grateful for his invaluable support during my first term as a Senator.
  Dick and I shared a great admiration and respect for President Ronald 
Reagan. We were both early supporters who campaigned tirelessly to help 
get President Reagan elected in 1980. In President Reagan, we saw a 
leader who shared our conservative values and our willingness to take a 
stand on hard issues. Impressed with Reagan's integrity, Dick and I put 
our whole heart and energy into campaigning for this great man.
  For many years, Dick and President Reagan shared a close friendship 
based on mutual love and respect. During the campaign, President Reagan 
noted Dick's political savvy and leadership skills and later tapped him 
to head the National Republican Committee from 1981-82. As chairman, 
Dick raised the Republican Party's profile and fought passionately for 
conservative principles across all levels of government. His leadership 
on the national stage set a course for many more years of campaign 
activity and advisory roles in Utah and across the Nation.
  Capping Dick's successful career in politics was his tireless help in 
establishing the Richard Richards Institute for Ethics at his alma 
mater, Weber State University. The institute is carrying on Dick's 
legacy to inspire future leaders to enter politics and government and 
lead with integrity and strength. In his book, ``Climbing the Political 
Ladder, One Rung at a Time,'' Dick discusses the virtues of civic 
engagement and encourages youth to become actively involved in the 
political process.
  Dick's public accomplishments were numerous, but his most significant 
achievements were personal. His greatest source of pride was his loving 
partnership with his wife Annette, their 5 children, 11 grandchildren, 
and 15 great-grandchildren. He deeply cared for each of them and always 
made family his top priority.
  Dick also donated countless hours of service to his community and his 
faith. He served in many important leadership positions in the Church 
of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and was always generous with his 
time.
  Dick Richards was a truly remarkable man who led by example, hard 
work, and a desire to do what is right. His impact on Utah will be felt 
for generations to come. Elaine and I send our deepest condolences to 
his beautiful wife Annette, whose loyal companionship and counsel 
sustained Dick throughout his career. May God's love embrace Annette 
and her family with peace and comfort during this difficult time.

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