Richard Kallas

Richard J. Kallas, age 79, passed away peacefully at his home in Bountiful, Utah, on Sunday, April 12, 2026.

Richard was born on March 1, 1947, in Orem, Utah, to Dan and Erma Kallas. He was the ninth of ten children in a large family.

Richard spent his early years in Orem, graduated from Orem High School, and later attended Brigham Young University, where he earned a degree in microbiology. Following graduation, he moved to the Los Angeles area for work where he built a successful career and eventually became the laboratory director for Glendale Adventist Medical Center. He greatly enjoyed his profession and especially valued the many friendships he formed with those he worked alongside.

Some of Richard’s favorite things to do when family visited him in California were going on trips to the malls, Chinatown, and other stores, mostly to walk around and browse. He also loved taking friends and family out for lunch and dinner whenever they visited. When Richard visited family in Utah, he especially loved going for rides to see Mount Timpanogos and would often stop to take pictures of himself with it in the background.

Richard had a love for travel and was fortunate to visit many places, including destinations in and near Greece, the homeland of his father. He was known for his generosity, thoughtful gift-giving, and his desire to help those who were facing difficulties in life.

In October 2025, Richard returned to Utah to be closer to family. Soon after his move, he was diagnosed with cancer and was given only days to weeks to live. True to his determined and stubborn nature, he exceeded all expectations and lived another five months.

Richard is survived by his sister, Ann (Bill) Cranney, along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and eight siblings: Clyde Kallas, Jay Kallas, June Kallas Wright, Bobby Donald Kallas, Stanley Kallas, Betty Kallas Alred, Dan E. Kallas, and Allen Kallas.