Manuel Richard Garay

Richard “Ric” Garay passed away peacefully on May 11, 2026 in his home in Hurricane, Utah. He was born in Illinois. He lived in California for most of his life, and in Arizona and Utah, to be near family, friends, his daughter and son in law. He was the eldest of 3 children with his surviving sister Ginny and late brother Ray. He was married to his loving wife, Ann “Shari” for 64 years who preceded to go to Heaven a year and a half before him. They had one surviving child named Michelle, who was loved dearly. 

Ric was in the Marine Corps from 1958-1962 at the age of 18 as a communications operator. The love story began in California when he married Shari, his loving wife. He attended Cal State Fullerton receiving his BA in Business with a career in sales and marketing for a variety of software companies. He loved exploring the west with Shari while driving their little Austin Healey. He enjoyed sharing most life memories with family and their best friends, the Murphy’s and Burkhart's, while going on vacations and camping in a variety of places, including Mexico. Ric loved his surviving daughter, Michelle, while supporting her during her soccer career through her adulthood. He was a coach, referee, and commissioner of AYSO Region 55. His quiet demeaner and caring nature gave him the spiritual gifts of helping people who came into his life. Ric and Shari always opened their loving home to friends and family members in need. He also gave back to his church by becoming a part of The Knights of Columbus supporting other church parishioners with bible study and spiritual journeys. He was always active in his church, and he was passionate about praying often. He was a dedicated Catholic attending church every Sunday for most of his lifetime. 

Celebration of Life Memorial, May 26 at 1:00 pm at The Haven at Sky Mountain, 2192 W 100 N, Hurricane, UT

 Intimate gathering for a Funeral Mass for Ric and Shari Garay held at St Paul Catholic Center, Hurricane, UT on June 5th. 

Please send your condolences to Michelle Gardner 237 N 2720 W, Hurricane, Utah 84737