Rio Honaker Jr

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Rio James Honaker Jr., cherished husband, father, brother, and friend, who left us on January 13, 2026, at the age of 57. Born on March 13, 1968, in Los Angeles, California, Rio brought joy and laughter into the lives of those who knew him. He was the beloved son of James Hampton Honaker and Charlotte Marie VanWormer Honaker.

Rios' life was marked by love, adventure, and a deep commitment to his family. He married Nicole Marie Summers on February 13, 1999, in Gilbert, Arizona; they later divorced. He later found a profound partnership with Audrey Lynn Caudill, whom he married on March 5, 2011, in the Salt Lake LDS Temple. Rios' passion for life was reflected in his many hobbies; he loved camping, sailing, and cooking, sharing delicious meals with family and friends. He found immense joy in the simple pleasures of life, often seen on the farm or playing his favorite tunes. His jovial spirit shone brightly when he donned the red suit of Santa Claus, spreading cheer to his community.

As a butcher, Rio took pride in providing for families, and his 20 years as a pig farmer gave him a unique perspective on hard work and dedication. He had a complicated relationship with construction, always thinking about it, but ultimately, it was his love for people and laughter that defined his legacy. Rio's warmth and sense of humor made him a delightful presence, always ready to lift others' spirits.

He is survived by his loving wife, Audrey; his three sons, Alex Lott (Ellen), Justice James (Anna), and Roman Kennedy; and his cherished granddaughter, Kinsley. Rio was also a beloved brother to Cynthia Maria Roberts, Sally Ann Gascon, Lita Jane Tunnicliff, David Allen Honaker, Chet Lee Honaker, and James Hunt Honaker. He is preceded in death by his parents and a brother, also named Rio James Honaker.

A celebration of Rio's life will take place on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 11:00 am at the Harbor 11th LDS Ward, located at 600 South 100 West in American Fork. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during a viewing on Friday, January 23, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Anderson & Sons Mortuary, 49 East 100 North, and again on Saturday, from 9:45 to 10:45 am at the church, prior to the services. Following the ceremony, he will be laid to rest in the Lehi City Cemetery.

Rio will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in all of us who were fortunate enough to know him. Let us honor him by sharing stories, laughter, and love-just as he would have wanted.

If you would like to participate in Rio's services via live stream, please click the link below:

https://youtube.com/live/TRyBZEdBqFo