Jean Rydalch

In the early evening of July 11, 2021, Jean Alyce Hendrickson Rydalch passed away holding the hand of her devoted sweetheart, Bob, in the home she created in Oakley, Utah.  She left this world peacefully, surrounded by the family she adored.

Mom was the oldest of two highly desired children born to Willard Liolen (Lyle) Hendrickson and Alyce Lavern Duckworth of Magna, Utah.  Mom learned the importance of love and devotion to family at a young age through the strong relationships forged with her own grandparents and extended family. Throughout her life, Mom placed value on those places and things that held memories of these special relationships.

Married to Robert Vivian Rydalch in the Salt Lake Temple on September 29, 1955, Mom was a deeply committed companion to our father. Their love for one another is a lasting legacy as they truly were one another’s most cherished friends. Their friendship began at Brockbank Jr. High and continued through their years at Cyprus High School and the University of Utah.

Together they raised their family in the communities of Murray, Hunter, and Oakley, Utah. For Mom, family was everything. She was distinctly proud of each of her children, their spouses, and grandchildren. Throughout her life, Mom was always present at recitals, ballgames, and any activity where her family was participating.  Mom was our number one fan and, at times, our fiercest advocate. With her big heart, Mom was ever expanding her circle of loved ones and made all feel like family.

When we think of our mom, we see a creator of spaces with a natural eye for design--whether it be in her flower gardens, her home, or the planned special occasions. Mom was a gifted seamstress and was recognized for her beautiful wedding gowns made for her family and friends. Mom’s gift as a creator was essential in her service as chairperson and active board member for the Festival of Trees.

Mom’s love of the gospel of Jesus Christ is reflected in her years of service in multiple ward and stake callings for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The highlight of Mom’s service was the opportunity to serve with her sweetheart on a full-time mission as the executive secretary to the Asia Area Presidency in Hong Kong.

We rejoice in the knowledge that her mind is hers again and wish to thank the many loving caring people who helped during these last few years of her life, including Chloe Goodman, Taylor Willoughby, and Linda Morrison.

Survived by her husband of 65 years, Robert Vivian Rydalch, children Robyn (Rodney Sorenson), Michelle (Alan Sorensen), Craig (Kena), Mark (Amy), 14 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren, brother Art Hendrickson (Marilyn).  Preceded in death by her parents.

We will honor mom at a viewing at the Kamas Utah Stake Center (3038 State Road 32, Marion) on Thursday, July 15th from 6:00-8:00 PM and Friday, July 16th from 9:30-10:45 AM, followed by funeral services at 11:00 AM.  Interment at the Oakley Utah Cemetery.