Richard Bentz

Richard “Rick” Allen Bentz
August 15, 1965 — December 1, 2025

Richard “Rick” Bentz came into the world on August 15, 1965, in Salt Lake City, and grew up in Murray, Utah something he was always proud of. He graduated from Murray High School and the University of Utah, solidifying his lifelong Utes fandom.

Rick spent 25 years married to his best friend and adventure partner, Jessica. Together, they built a life full of love, humor, and complementary talents and were the perfect match in every way. The love and respect they had for each other were inspiring and everlasting,

He is survived by his wife Jessica; his son Dexter (Jonalyn) and grandsons Jack and Otis; his daughter Cloe; his mother, Geraldine; his siblings Jim (Linnea) and Cindi (Dan); his father and mother-in-law, Roger and Marian; sister-in-law Jennifer (Scott) and brother-in-law Jeff (Tammy); and a whole bunch of nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews who adored their Uncle Rick. He is preceded in death by his father, James, and his son, Coleman.

Rick loved his family fiercely. You could always find him cheering loudly from the sidelines, rearranging his schedule to show up for every game, performance, and milestone. He was a die-hard Utah Utes and Miami Dolphins fan—often suffering more than celebrating, but loyal to the end.

He was a fantastic cook, and those lucky enough to taste his food knew it. He was also known for his quick wit, well-timed sarcasm, and his unstoppable love of a good political debate—because Rick always got the last word. Summer trips meant fishing competitions with Jessica’s family, and though he’d tell you he was a contender… well, the fish may have other opinions. His sweet tooth was legendary, and his grandson Jack and his dog Elle were the happy recipients of every sugary bribe.

Rick spent his career in marketing, where he guided and mentored countless people. Analytical, direct, and passionate—he made an impact everywhere he worked.

Rick was one of the great ones—loving, loyal, smart, giving, just the right amount of sarcastic, and seriously unserious. He will be missed more than words can say.

An open house visitation will be held on Sunday, December 7, 2025, from 5-7 PM at Jenkins-Soffe Funeral Home in Murray 4760 South State Street. A service to celebrate his life will be held Monday, December 8, at 11:00 AM at Jenkins-Soffe Funeral Home. An additional visitation beginning at 10:00-10:45 AM will be held before the service.

To honor Rick in a way that truly reflects who he was we ask guests to represent his favorite team The University of Utah at the services. A jersey, hat or anything in Utah red is welcome.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to help cover the costs of his medical and funeral expenses.
Contributions can be made at:
https://www.anythingforafriend.com/index.php/help-your-friend/list/rick-bentz