Ricardo Chacon Jr.

Rico Chacon, 44, of LaBelle, Idaho, passed away on January 18, 2026. He was born on December 19, 1981, in Rexburg, Idaho, to Ricardo and Maria Lourdes Chacon.

Rico loved his senior year in West Yellowstone and made the most of living in a small town. He played every sport available at the school, excelling particularly in track—where he set state records—and in football, earning a place on the Six-Man All-Star team. Along with his friends, Rico found creative ways to add excitement to town life, often landing himself in trouble and getting to know the local police by name—an experience that would later influence his decision to become a police officer. He graduated from West Yellowstone High School in 2000.

After marrying, Rico attended Idaho State University, where he graduated as a mechanic. Over the years, he worked in many trades, including tiling homes, working on engines, and driving semis. He was a long-time resident of Jefferson County and was always willing to help wherever needed.

On June 30, 2006, Rico married Kathryn Beth Taylor in the Logan Temple. Together they were blessed with four children: Morgan and Wyatt, affectionately known as the “Bitty Boys”; Lundyn, known as “Pumpkin”; and McKoy, known as “Piss-ant.” Being a father was Rico’s greatest joy. His children were his pride, and he cherished every moment spent with them.

At the age of 20, Rico joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and later served a mission in Spain. He especially loved serving in callings with the youth, where he enjoyed teaching, mentoring, and encouraging them. Rico showed his love for the Lord through faithful service and frequent attendance at the temple.

Rico found peace and happiness in the outdoors. He loved tramping in the mountains, hunting, and shooting pot guts, elk, and deer—especially when his family, and particularly the boys, were by his side. If a chainsaw was involved, Rico was always the one to call. He cut down countless trees for neighbors and generously supplied firewood to those in need.

A talented cook, Rico was famous for his smoked, fall-off-the-bone ribs and often invited neighbors to share a meal. Serving others quietly and without recognition was simply part of who he was. Fiercely loyal, Rico stood by those he loved with unwavering devotion.

Rico is survived by his wife, Katie Chacon; his sons, Morgan, Wyatt, and McKoy; his daughter, Lundyn; his mother, Maria Chacon; his siblings, Nora (Miguel) Ortega, and Hugo Chacon, all of Rigby; and Elmer (Raquel) Chacon of Idaho Falls, along with many nieces and nephews.

Rico will be remembered for his generosity, his love of family, and his quiet service to others.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the LaBelle 3rd Ward Chapel, located at 4223 E. 528 N., Rigby, Idaho. A viewing will be held prior to the service from 9:00 to 10:45 a.m. at the church. An evening viewing will be held on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at Eckersell Funeral Home. Interment will be in the Rigby Pioneer Cemetery.