Richard Kriest

Richard Kriest, 88, passed away Tuesday, September 6, 2022 at his home in Rock Springs, Wyoming. He was a resident of Rock Springs, for the past 54 years and former resident of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania.

He was born April 26, 1934 in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania; Stephen Kriest and Ruth Wagner Kriest.

Mr. Kriest attended schools in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania and was a 1952 graduate of Hopewell High School.

He married Ruth Hannan August 14, 1954 in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania.

Mr. Kriest worked for the first Nuclear Power Plant at Shippingport, Pennsylvania for many years as a Machinist Mechanic. He also worked for Jim Bridger Power Plant; Tennaco and Solvay. Mr. Kriest had a stroke in 1997 and ill health forced his retirement.

He enjoyed being a Boy Scout Leader; sculpting and lost wax casting. Mr. Kriest had his own little factory in his garage and made bronze statues and many belt buckles for friends at work. He was a quiet person who could fix anything and enjoyed helping others fix things as well. After his stroke he and Ruth traveled to many places out of the country they never thought they would see. Skiing was more than a hobby. It was what he lived for. He served on the Ski Patrol at Snow King in Jackson and White Pine in Pinedale for 35 years up to his 86th birthday. He received three Blue Angels for having saved lives. The National Ski Patrol awarded him an Outstanding Service Award for 35 years of service.

Survivors include his wife, Ruth Kriest of Rock Springs, Wyoming; one son David Kriest of Rawlins, Wyoming; two daughters, Holly Murray and husband Butch of Sewickley, Pennsylvania; Shari Scott and husband Joe of Clinton, Pennsylvania; five grandchildren, Stephanie Paulsen and husband Tim; Jennifer Kriest; Zachary Murray; Tyler Scott; Kaitlyn Scott; two great-grandchildren, Whitney Paulsen; Brian Paulsen; several cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one son, Brian Kriest and two brothers.

Cremation has taken place; a Celebration of Life will be conducted 12:00 P.M. Saturday September 24, 2022 at Santa Fe Southwest Grill, 1635 Elk Street, Rock Springs, Wyoming.

Condolences may be left at http://www.vasefuneralhomes.com.