William Richards Preston

William Richards Preston

1951 – 2023

William “Bill” Richards Preston, age 71, passed away May 21st, 2023, in his home surrounded by family. Bill is preceded in death by his father Merill Preston and mother Lucille (Richards) Preston Garrett; grandparents William H. Preston and Fern Preston; and, grandparents Guy S. Richards and Roxie Richards.

Bill was born on October 26th, 1951 in American Fork, Utah to father Merrill Preston and mother Lucille (Richards) Preston Garrett. After Graduating from American Fork High School in 1969, Bill served in the Provo National Guard as part of the 140th Artillery Target Acquisition Unit. Bill also worked as an electrician at Geneva Steel for over 30 years where he acquired the nickname “Bronco” which stuck with him over the years.

Bill grew up with his sister Merilu Mills (Jeff) and cousins Cathleen Draper, Diane Richards, and Kim Fox.

Bill met his wife Debra (Rhone) Preston in 1965, and the two were married in November of 1970. Bill and Debra went on to have five children: Bart Preston (Jenny), Brandie Wilde, Tanya Westmoreland, William “Colby” Preston, and Trevor Preston (Madelyn). Bill had several grandchildren: Kolten Preston (Bethany), Chelsea Johnson (Cody), Kate Preston, Zack Wilde, Dawson Wilde, Mia Westmoreland, Max Westmoreland, Kenzey Preston, and Mason Westmoreland. Bill also leaves behind two great grandchildren: Mack Preston, and Navy Johnson.

Bill loved the outdoors and the hobbies it encompassed such as hunting, fishing, horseback riding, camping, and spending time at his cabin in Midway. Bill always sought to share his hobbies with his children and grandchildren, and he wanted to make sure they were having as much fun as he was at all times.

Family was everything to Bill, and he would stop at nothing to make sure his family was safe and comfortable. If any of his children were sick or needed anything, they knew that Bill would be there for them and make sure they were receiving the help they needed. Bill truly served as a pillar of strength for his family and those around him.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held on Saturday, June 10, 2023 at 6:00 pm at Moyle Park, located at 600 East 770 North, Alpine, Utah. There will be picnic tables available or lawn seating. Limited parking, try to carpool if possible.