Richard Alvie Dietz

    Richard Alvie Dietz, age 86, of Neola, died on November 20, 2022, at his home. 
    Richard was born on May 29, 1936, in Miles City, Montana, to Joseph Henry and Hazel Alvina Bergman Dietz. He grew up on the family ranch and developed an extraordinary work ethic and a passion for a job well done. 
    Richard graduated from Plevna High School in Plevna, Montana. He served proudly in the United States Army, being stationed in Germany. Shortly after being discharged, he met Mary Myrtle Howe. They married, settling in Montana, and had
three sons. 
    Richard married Jean Leonard on December 19, 1970, in Buffalo, South Dakota.  He worked in oilfields across the country, and they eventually brought their family to settle in the Uintah Basin. Richard became very knowledgeable and well-respected, and developed a reputation for being a shrewd businessman and a disciplined leader. He retired from his oilfield career while working as a pusher and later spent some time as a consultant. Richard and Jean also spent 20 years as caretakers of Skinwalker Ranch. 
    Richard was very passionate about gardening. He was known for his large, neat gardens, and his lawn and trees were always vibrant and healthy. He was also a very skilled mechanic. 
    Jean and Richard were married for 51 years and enjoyed watching their family grow up. They spent many happy summers boating and water-skiing at Bottle Hollow and Sandwash Reservoir. 
    Richard is survived by his wife, Jean; son, Gary (Dedra) Dietz; six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren, and many other relatives. 
    He was preceded in death by his former spouse, Mary; his parents; six siblings; sons Jeffrey Allen and Michael Boyd Dietz, and a great-grandchild. 
    A family memorial service was held in Richard’s honor on November 27, 2022.