The tight-knit community of Ogden Canyon, Utah, is mourning the heartbreaking loss of two beloved individuals following a devastating accident. Richard David Hendrickson, the CEO and president of Lifetime Products, and his 16-year-old daughter, Sally, tragically lost their lives in a horrific bulldozer-related crash on Saturday, July 6. The shocking incident has left family, friends, and colleagues reeling in grief.
The fatal accident occurred on Highway 39, a narrow and winding road known for its treacherous turns. As Richard and his daughter were traveling in their GMC pickup truck, they encountered a tow truck carrying a small bulldozer. Both vehicles were navigating a sharp right-hand curve when disaster struck. The bulldozer, which was being towed, unexpectedly came loose from the truck and fell onto the Hendrickson family’s vehicle. The impact was catastrophic, leaving Richard and Sally fatally injured at the scene.
Two other adult passengers in the truck survived but sustained non-life-threatening injuries. However, the loss of Richard and Sally has left a void that cannot be filled. Richard, 57, was not just a successful business leader—he was a visionary, a dedicated family man, and a pillar of the community. His contributions to both his company and the people around him were immense, making his sudden passing all the more tragic.
A Leader Remembered
Richard Hendrickson’s journey from welder to CEO of Lifetime Products is a testament to his extraordinary dedication, skill, and leadership. He worked his way up in the company, proving time and again his ability to inspire and innovate. Under his leadership, Lifetime Products flourished, expanding its reach and cementing its reputation as a trusted name in consumer goods.
His close friend and the company’s founder, Barry Mower, has spoken publicly about the deep bond they shared. Mower regarded Richard as not only a professional partner but also one of his most trusted and dearest friends. The pain of losing someone so integral to the company’s success and culture is profound, and his colleagues are struggling to come to terms with the tragedy.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox also extended his condolences, describing Richard as a great leader and a valued friend. His influence stretched far beyond the walls of his company, impacting the lives of many in the community and beyond.
Calls for Improved Road Safety on Highway 39
The horrific accident has reignited discussions about the safety of Highway 39, a two-lane road that winds through Ogden Canyon. Known for its tight curves and limited space, the road is frequently used by vehicles of all sizes, including large trucks and heavy equipment transporters. However, the risks associated with transporting oversized loads on this narrow highway have now been tragically highlighted.
In response to this devastating incident, concerned citizens have launched a petition calling for stricter regulations on the types of vehicles allowed on Highway 39. The petition emphasizes the dangers posed by large and heavy machinery traveling through the canyon, particularly on its sharp turns and steep inclines. With over 1,700 signatures gathered so far, the movement is gaining traction as more people recognize the urgent need for improved road safety measures.
The primary goal of the petition is to prevent future tragedies by implementing stricter weight and size limits for vehicles traveling on Highway 39. Supporters argue that increased regulations could make a significant difference in reducing accidents and ensuring safer conditions for all who use the road daily.
Honoring the Hendrickson Family
As the community mourns, many are coming together to support the Hendrickson family during this incredibly difficult time. Friends, colleagues, and residents of Ogden Canyon have expressed their grief and shared stories of Richard’s kindness, generosity, and unwavering dedication to those around him.
The loss of Sally, a bright and promising young woman, is equally devastating. At just 16 years old, she had her whole life ahead of her. Her sudden passing is a painful reminder of how fragile life can be and how important it is to cherish every moment with loved ones.
How You Can Help
In the wake of this tragedy, the community is rallying to not only support the Hendrickson family but also to advocate for meaningful changes that could prevent similar accidents in the future. By signing the petition, residents of Weber County and beyond can voice their concerns and push for necessary safety improvements on Highway 39.
If you would like to contribute to these efforts, consider adding your name to the petition and sharing it with others. The more voices that join in demanding safer roads, the more likely it is that lawmakers and transportation officials will take action.
Additionally, keeping the Hendrickson family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time can provide them with comfort as they navigate their unimaginable loss.
Moving Forward
The sudden loss of Richard and Sally Hendrickson serves as a tragic reminder of the unpredictable nature of life. It also underscores the importance of prioritizing safety, both on the roads and within our communities. As family, friends, and colleagues mourn, they also find strength in honoring Richard and Sally’s legacy by pushing for change and advocating for a safer future.
Together, we can work toward ensuring that no other family has to endure such heartbreak. Let’s take action now, in memory of those we’ve lost, to create safer roads and a stronger community.
Our hearts go out to the Hendrickson family and all those affected by this terrible accident. May they find peace, and may we all commit to making the changes necessary to prevent such tragedies in the future.
