Rik Mudgett

Richard Charles Mudgett, also affectionately known as Rik, was born on October 21, 1943, in Monterey Park, California to Wilmer and Frieda Mudgett. He passed away on November 25, 2024, while residing in Ogden, Utah.

Growing up in Hawthorne, California, Rik loved surfing, scuba diving, spear fishing and all things in the ocean. Some of his favorite childhood memories were made with his only brother and best friend Don. They were quite the pranksters. Later in life Rik developed a passion for riding his Harley Davidson, a testament to his motto, "Live to Ride, Ride to Live." Rik was also an artist at heart and had many hobbies including gardening, woodworking, and different mediums of art. Rik was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Rik was a proud member of the United States Navy, serving four years during the Vietnam War era, he was honorably discharged. He later pursued a career as a pipe fitter in the oil and gas industry, a profession that was a testament to his hardworking and meticulous nature.

Rik married the love of his life, Marilyn in 1972, through which he gained his daughters Jamie and Michelle. A year later Marilyn gave birth to their only daughter, Diedra (Didi). His greatest accomplishment was being a father to his girls. Despite their divorce, he did all he could to support Marilyn as early onset dementia took its toll. His love and care weren't limited to just humans, but extended to his beloved pets over the years, especially his sweet kittie Sheba he left behind. Rik’s thoughtfulness persisted until his final days, always making sure to share his Twix bars with everyone that came to see him.

Rik is survived by his daughter, Didi DeCorso; step-daughter, Michelle Mustain (Bryan) Dixon; step-daughter, Jamie Mustain (Lisa Guerrero); and his brother, Don (Brenda) Mudgett. His memory lives on through his grandchildren: Marissa Maltby, Isabella DeCorso, Brett (Alexis) Breedlove, and Sean Scilley. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews: David (Janelle) Mudgett, Kathy (Mosa) Vuki, Becky Tebbs, and Jenny (Casey) Murphy. He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilmer and Frieda Mudgett, and his ex-wife, Marilyn Mudgett.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Giving Tree in the lobby at George E. Wahlen Veterans Home or to your favorite nonprofit benefiting veterans.

Please join us to celebrate Rik’s life on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at the George E Wahlen Ogden Veterans Home from 6:00-8:00, located at 1102 North 1200 West, Ogden, Utah 84404.

We, as a family, would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the staff at the George E. Wahlen Ogden Veterans Home, who were more than just staff to Rik. They developed great friendships with him, especially those in the B pod, who went above and beyond to ensure his comfort during his last few months.

We encourage those who knew Rik to visit his memorial page, share their memories and upload photos that celebrate his compassionate and lively spirit. Your stories and pictures will serve as a comfort to us as we remember this remarkable man, Rik. Arrangements were entrusted to Provident Funeral Home Ogden.