Obituary for Lorin McKay "Mack" Rich - East Idaho News
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Obituary

Lorin McKay “Mack” Rich

March 22nd, 1942 - September 14th, 2026

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Lorin McKay “Mack” Rich, 84, of Ammon, passed away September 14, 2026, at Promontory Point in Ammon, Idaho.

Mack was born March 22, 1942, the fourth child of Eugene and Lillian Rich, in St. Anthony, Idaho. He grew up in Parker, Idaho, and graduated from South Fremont High School. He attended Utah State University, and received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Zoology from Brigham Young University.

Dr. Rich married his high school sweetheart, Sheila, September 15, 1965 in the Idaho Falls Temple. They were blessed with four wonderful children, Heather, Ryan, Sausha, and Corbin. He was a devoted husband and loving father and grandfather who cherished his wife and family above all else. He was a dedicated caregiver to his wife in her last years.

McKay attended Northwestern University in Chicago, receiving his Doctorate of Dental Surgery. He and his family returned to Idaho Falls to establish a private practice. Thereafter, he joined seven other dentists and specialists to form the Idaho Falls Dental Group where he practiced for 30 years. This association evolved into an enjoyable and rewarding partnership that enabled him to build, refine, and strengthen his skills.

He carefully chose dentistry as a profession and it has been most fulfilling. He loved treating his patients, and developed a long and cordial relationship with many. He considered his colleagues and staff among his closest friends.

He was a member of the American Dental Association and Idaho State Dental Association. He served as a Dental Assisting Program Advisor for Eastern Idaho Technical College, participated in United Way Youth Organizations, Little League, Boy Scouts of America and Varsity Scout Program, Cedar Badge, and church youth programs. Through his devoted service, he made a lasting difference in the lives of many, especially during their formative years.

Mack always enjoyed watching and participating in sports. Notably, as a season ticket holder for 40+ years, he was a BYU Cougar football fan. He also enjoyed fishing and camping, classic cars, and working in his beautiful yard. Music was also an important element in his life.

McKay is survived by his daughters, Heather Rich and Sausha (Peter) Herget; son, Ryan (Melissa) Rich; nine grandchildren, Lauren, Logan, Mallory, Andy, Abigail, Kai, Kate, Natalie, and Bryson; and sister, DeAnn Gardner.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Sheila; son, Corbin Rich; his parents; brother, Clayton; sister, Merlyn; and in-laws, Virgil “Bud” Powell, Willard Gardner, and Barbra Rich.

The family wishes to express their gratitude for the compassionate care given by the staff at Promontory Point Rehabilitation Center and Idaho Falls Community Hospital.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, September 25, 2026, at Wood Funeral Home East Side, 963 S. Ammon Road. The family will visit with friends Thursday, September 24, 2026, from 6:30-8 p.m. and Friday from 10-10:45 a.m. prior to services. Both visitations will be held at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Fielding Memorial Park Cemetery.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.woodfuneralhome.com.

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