Dick Oliver Hallsey, age 93, passed away on October 18, 2026, leaving behind a beautiful legacy of love, laughter, faith, service, and family.

Dick was born on May 17, 1933, in Oak Park, Illinois, to Roy and Leda Hallsey. He was the youngest of five children, joining his sisters Ethel, Pauline, and Shirley, and his brother Jim. As the baby of the family, Dick was doted on by everyone who knew him. Affectionately called "Dicky," he was a curious, adventurous boy who had a special talent for finding mischief.

Much of Dick's childhood was spent on the Moore family estate, where his father worked as a chauffeur. Young Dicky could often be found spending time with the gardener or with Mrs. Moore, who spoiled him as though he were her own. These early experiences helped nurture a lifelong love of gardening, trees, and the outdoors.

While in elementary school, Dick met Stan Stiener, who would become his lifelong best friend. Their friendship continued through marriage, raising children, and countless family activities. Dick treasured the years their families spent together and the joy of watching their children grow up side by side.

Dick attended Lake View High School in Chicago and was accepted into the Art Institute of Chicago before entering military service. He proudly served in the United States Air Force from April 2, 1953, to April 1, 1957. His adventurous spirit and love of country remained strong throughout his life. At age 50, he pursued another military adventure through Army Special Forces Jump School, with involvement spanning September 21, 1984, to September 21, 1991.

It was during his Air Force years, while stationed near Cambria, California, that Dick met the love of his life, Joyce Whitehead. Joyce was working as a lifeguard at Hearst Castle when their paths crossed. She was just 16 years old, and Dick respectfully asked her father's permission to court her until she turned 18. Their love story blossomed, and they married on June 9, 1957.

Together, Dick and Joyce built a life filled with love, adventure, and family. They were, as the family fondly recalls, "quite the gypsies," making homes in many places, from Cambria, California, to Tinley Park, Illinois, and eventually Utah. In 2007, they settled in the quiet mountain town of Eureka, Utah.

Their greatest blessings were their three daughters, Alira Fay, Donna Celeste, and Tina Jo. Dick loved being a father, and each daughter carries special memories of the man who helped shape her life.

Alira remembers how her daddy treated every question as a teachable moment, patiently sharing his knowledge and encouraging her curiosity. Donna treasures his playful nature and the special secret hand squeeze that meant "I love you," a simple gesture that spoke volumes.

Tina Jo shared these loving words:
"My dad taught me humor, love, compassion and patriotism. He taught me how to be me and loved me through every day of it."
Those words beautifully capture the heart of a father who loved his daughters for exactly who they were.

Dick's love extended to his 14 grandchildren and 34 great-grandchildren, each a cherished part of the family legacy he and Joyce created.
A certified arborist, Dick worked as a groundskeeper for various institutions. He found satisfaction in caring for the earth and making the places around him more beautiful. His many interests included gardening, drafting, trains, and reading. He was also a talented woodworker who enjoyed creating everything from furniture to picture frames. His hands were rarely idle, and he took pleasure in learning, building, and sharing what he knew.

Dick was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His faith was an important part of his life, guiding his desire to serve and care for others. He was also involved with the JC's, the Illinois Landscape Association, the Sons of Utah Pioneers, and the American Legion in Eureka, Utah.

When his beloved Joyce passed away in 2014, Dick found comfort and renewed purpose in ministering to others. Even through his own grief, he continued reaching out, offering friendship, kindness, and service to those around him.

In 2018, Dick moved to Legacy House in Spanish Fork, Utah. There he devoted time to genealogy, continued his ministering, and formed many treasured friendships. Among those friends was his best friend, Edie Bean, with whom he spent countless happy hours. His later years reflected the same curiosity, compassion, and love of companionship that had marked his entire life.

Dick was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joyce; his parents, Roy and Leda Hallsey; and his four siblings, Etha, Pauline, Shirley, and Jim.

He is survived by his three daughters and sons-in-law: Alira and Scott Orwin, Donna and Dale Robinson, and Tina and Todd Rucker; along with 14 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren, and many dear friends.

Funeral Services
A viewing will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 12:00 noon, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chapel located at 505 E. 900 N., Spanish Fork, Utah 84660.
Interment will take place on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., at Utah Veterans Cemetery & Memorial Park, 17111 S. 1700 W., Bluffdale, Utah 84065.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Walker Funeral Home in Spanish Fork, Utah.

A Living Tribute
Dick leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, faith, and service. Through his gentle lessons, playful spirit, adventurous heart, and unwavering devotion to his family, he touched the lives of generations. His love will continue to grow in the hearts of all who knew him, much like the trees he spent a lifetime nurturing.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites those wishing to honor Dick's memory to plant a tree through the National Arbor Day Foundation.
A living tree is a fitting tribute to a man who spent so much of his life helping beautiful things grow.

Though he will be deeply missed, the love he gave, the lessons he taught, and the memories he created will remain with his family forever.