Richard J. Croft
Richard J. Croft completed his life's journey on February 28, 2023. He was blessed to be at home under the attentive care of his beloved wife, Deana, during his final days. Richard was born in Lovell, Wyoming on September 27, 1932 to loving parents, Thomas Brown Croft and Elna Jones Croft. Preceding him in death were his parents, his sisters, Jean Anderson (James), Helen Peters (Pete) and Lynne Lynn (Bart), and a stillborn son they named Richard T. Croft. He is survived by his sisters Mary Kocherhans (Rex) and Carol Nelson (Manfred). Richard spent an idyllic childhood in Wyoming. Upon graduating from Lovell High School, he attended the University of Wyoming followed by dental school at Northwestern University, graduating in 1958. He practiced dentistry for 60 years beginning at Marine Corp Base Camp Pendleton, then in Arizona, until 2018. In 1953, Richard married Helen Tebbs of Cowley, WY. Together they had five children who survive him: Kevin T. Croft, Corey Walker (Brad), Scott T. Croft (Lisa), Eric T. Croft (Brittany), Daren T. Croft. He is also survived by his son Richard Jordan Croft. Richard's life was filled with adventures and many interests, which he pursued ...[more]View Full Online Obituary and Tributes
h intensity. He was a dedicated Scout Master. He loved boating, skiing, motorcycling, bird hunting, traveling, and ballroom dance. When health limited his activities, he turned to baking. His greatest passion, however, was his devoted wife, Deana, with whom he spent 35 years. They were married on November 14, 2009. His stepsons Gerald C. Cheatham and Daniel C. Cheatham (Debbie) are family. Richard and Deana, together, have 24 grandchildren and 35 great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held on March 11 at 11:00 am at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 6840 E. Gold Dust Ave., Scottsdale AZ 85253. Viewing will open at 10:00 am. Burial services will be at the National Memorial Cemetery 23029 N. Cave Creek Rd., Phoenix 85024 on March 13 at 10:00 am. Funeral arrangements are being made by Hansen Desert Hills Mortuary, 6500 E. Bell Rd., Scottsdale AZ 85254.
