Richard “Buzz” Michael Higgins
Richard “Buzz” Michael Higgins 93, of Cottonwood Heights passed away peacefully on February 5, 2026.
Beloved father of Elizabeth, Jean (Shawn) Peretto, Margaret, Michael; cherished grandfather of Chloe Perri, Ryan Perri, Olivia Peretto and Maya Peretto; and uncle to many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his siblings David Higgins, Philip Higgins and Sandra Brass.
Born in Geneva, Illinois to the late Richard and Leona Higgins, Buzz lived his youth in Winfield, Illinois. He developed a strong work ethic at a young age helping in his father’s grocery store, delivering newspapers and shoveling coal at his uncle’s fuel and coal yard.
After graduating Immaculate Conception High School (’50), Buzz proudly served four years in the U.S. Air Force as a meteorologist stationed in Chuncheon, South Korea for two years during the Korean War (’52-’53) then returning to Andrews Air Force Base for two years. Following his honorable discharge from the Air Force, he attended St. Mary’s College in Winona, Maine. Buzz traveled extensively, skiing and rock climbing through Europe. Upon returning to the United States Buzz continued to follow his passion for skiing, which led him to Alta, Utah and Sun Valley, Idaho. He was certified as a Professional Ski Instructor of America and instructed at Sun Valley. He returned to Winfield, where he met and married Nora Durack. After several years Buzz and Nora with their four children moved permanently to Utah, where he continued to instruct skiing at Alta and Solitude ski resorts. He remained a proud member of the Professional Ski Instructors of America for over 25 years. Buzz was also a volunteer firefighter with Winfield Fire Department, an accomplished chef, baker and master carpenter. Later in life he found joy in learning to fly small aircraft with friends, exploring the back country of Utah, Idaho and Montana.
Buzz lived his life as a devout Catholic and long-time parishioner at Saint Thomas More Parish. He was involved in many activities over the years serving the church community, joining the “Fun Bunch” and sitting amongst his friends enjoying coffee while folding brochures after daily Mass. 
A funeral Mass will be celebrated on February 17, 2026 at 11 a.m. at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, 3015 E. Creek Road, Cottonwood Heights, followed by interment at Mount Calvary Catholic Cemetery, 275 U Street, Salt Lake City. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul or the Humane Society. Arrangements entrusted to Starks Funeral Parlor. Share your photos and memories with his family at www.starksfuneral.com
The Higgins family would like to thank the staff at Wellington Assisted Living and the team at Inspiration Home Health and Hospice for their care and compassion in Buzz’s final months.