Donald Rich

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Donald Edwin Rich II on January 4, 2026, at the age of 69. Born on October 17, 1956, in Detroit, Michigan, to Donald Edwin Rich, Sr. and Eleanor Blackwell Rich. Don was raised in sunny Los Angeles, California, as the youngest of three siblings. He cherished his sisters, Diana Lynn and Dawn Louise, and carried the memory of his father, who died when Don was just twelve years old.

A true patriot, Don dedicated his life to service. At the age of 17, he enlisted in the Navy, where he experienced the world and its cultures like few ever do. After a skydiving accident while serving as a Navy Seal, Don went on to serve in the Navy’s Submarine Force. He embraced every moment of his military career. It was during a deployment in Hawaii that he met his beloved wife, Grace Lyn Reed. Their love story began on Oahu and blossomed into a life filled with adventure, laughter, and family when they married on April 1, 1983. They were later sealed in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Salt Lake Temple in May 1984, a timeless bond that defined their lives together.

Stationed at the Naval Submarine Base Bangor, Washington, Don discovered his love for the fire service when he volunteered with the Kitsap County Fire Department.

After being honorably discharged from the Navy, Don and Grace Lyn settled in Utah, where they raised their two wonderful children, Josh and Courtney. During this time, he also served his community as a volunteer firefighter/EMT with American Fork Fire Rescue and was a proud member of the Honor Guard. He continued his service to his country as an Adjudication Officer with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, where he touched the lives of many aspiring citizens over a remarkable 17-year career. He was currently serving as Treasurer of the Utah State Fire Association.

Alongside his dedication to public service, Don pursued a degree in Computer Science, Networking, and Data Communications from Utah Valley University and proudly volunteered at the 2002 Olympic Winter Games in Salt Lake City. His warm spirit and friendly nature made conversations with strangers an effortless delight; he could always make babies laugh with his silly faces and infectious smile.

Don is survived by his loving wife, Grace Lyn, their children Joshua (Candice) Rich and Courtney (John) Staley, and his cherished grandsons, who brought immense joy to his life: Christian Hunsaker, Jaxson Rich, Rowan Staley, and Lucus Staley. He was preceded in death by his parents, stepfather, and his sisters. He was deeply patriotic and held a profound love for his country, always honoring and respecting those who served alongside him. He was a loving husband, a proud father and grandfather, and a friend to many.

We invite friends and family to join us in a Celebration of Don’s Life, sharing memories, and honoring the legacy of love and service he leaves behind on January 10, 2026, at 11 AM at Anderson and Sons Mortuary, 49 East 100 North, American Fork, UT. There will be a public viewing from 9:45-10:45 AM at the mortuary. Don will be laid to rest at a graveside ceremony at American Fork Cemetery, 600 North Center Street, American Fork, UT.