Richard Ashton Anderson

Richard Ashton Anderson passed away early in the morning on September 1, 2026, at the age of 83. He was born June 15, 1943, in Rexburg, Idaho, to George Alton Anderson and Ethelynne Ashton Anderson.

He attended Washington Elementary School and Madison High School. After high school, he enlisted in the Army Reserves. In October 1963, he was called to serve a two-and-a-half-year mission in the Stockholm Swedish Mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He loved his mission and developed a lifelong affection for Sweden and its people.

After returning home, Richard attended Ricks College, where he majored in industrial arts. He was the head of the college’s Program Board. He was active in student affairs, serving as co-chairman of the Homecoming Committee. On June 1, 1966, he married Evelyn Phillips in Idaho Falls, and they became parents to BriAnne and Mark.

Richard continued his education at Weber State University and Utah State University, where he earned a master’s degree in 1968.

Richard devoted his professional life to teaching industrial education at Idaho Falls, Bonneville, and Hillcrest high schools. He had such a love and passion for teaching. His students became an integral part of his life, with continued mentorship that naturally extended beyond their formal schooling.

One of his greatest satisfactions and contributions was his involvement with FIRST Robotics. He became a driving force in bringing the program to high school students throughout Idaho, Utah, Wyoming, and Montana. After retiring from teaching, he continued with FIRST Robotics. His work with robotics helped countless young people and their instructors learn to solve problems, master new skills, work together, and compete in regional and national events.

Richard instilled in his students, children, and grandchildren that with interest and hard work, anything was possible. He helped them understand that even failed attempts are learning experiences. He loved teaching students how to master skills, but his influence extended far beyond the classroom and shop. He taught young people to be good citizens, work hard, solve problems, and do what was right, and they knew he cared.

Richard married Diane Hash Dias Coles in October 1989, welcoming her three children, Brandi, Courtnee, and Tyler, into the family. With the arrival of Drake and Darbi, Richard and Diane completed their family.

Richard will be remembered for his great smile, ability to fix anything, desire to help others, and his twice-daily Maverick runs.

His faith was an integral part of his life. Richard was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many Church callings throughout his life, and he loved serving in the Idaho Falls Temple with his sweetheart.

Richard is survived by his wife, Diane; his children: Brandi Tyler (Blake), Courtnee Bond (Drex), BriAnne Picard (Greg), Tyler Coles (Laura), Mark Anderson, Drake Anderson (Hedvig), and Darbi Carr (Luke); Grandchildren: Chloe and Claire Tyler and Grace, Chloe and Scarlett Dawson; Ashton (Abby), Oaklee, McKinley, Addison, and Londyn Bond; Quinten and Milan Picard; Zyal Louis, Natalya Gross and Yara Coles; Henry and Gwen Carr; Ingrid Anderson; his siblings: Lynne Anderson (Donna), Alys Bish, Carol Later (Rick), and David Anderson (Shanna).

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, G. Alton Anderson and Ethelynne Ashton Anderson.

Funeral services will be held at 12 noon, Saturday, September 5, 2026, at the LDS Church, 5366 E. First Street. A visitation will be held from 6-8:00 p.m., Friday, September 4, 2026, at Coltrin Mortuary, 2100 First Street, Idaho Falls, and from 11-11:45 a.m. prior to the services at the church. Burial will be in the Rexburg Cemetery.

Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.coltrinmortuary.com.