Richard David Hendrickson, CEO of Lifetime Products, and his 16-year-old daughter, Sally, tragically lost their lives in a freak accident when a mini bulldozer fell off a tow truck and crushed their vehicle in Ogden Canyon, Utah. The incident occurred on July 6, 2024, while the family was on a scenic drive after a day spent wakeboarding and waterskiing at Pine View Reservoir.

Hendrickson, 57, was driving a GMC pickup truck with his wife and three of their children when the bulldozer broke free. Hendrickson and his youngest daughter Sally were pronounced dead at the scene, while his wife and two other children sustained non-life-threatening injuries. The Hendricksons’ oldest daughter was not in the vehicle at the time.

The Utah Department of Public Safety confirmed the details of the accident, noting that the tow truck was doing a sharp turn on State Route 39 when the bulldozer landed on Hendrickson’s car. The department is investigating the incident to determine the exact cause and any potential negligence involved.

Vince Rhoton, executive vice president of Lifetime Products, shared memories of Hendrickson’s dedication to his family and his efforts to connect with his daughter, Sally. “Spending time with his family, especially Sally, was always his priority. He built a chicken coop and learned how to raise chickens to bond with her over something she loved,” Rhoton said.

Hendrickson, who began his career as a welder, had worked up to become the president and CEO of Lifetime Products, a leading outdoor furniture company. “He was spectacularly talented and an essential part of our business, but what made him special was his humble and likable personality,” he added.

Rhoton reflected on Hendrickson’s approach to life and work, emphasizing the importance of seizing the day. “Seize the day and be good to the people around you.”

Barry Mower, the founder of Lifetime Products, praised Hendrickson’s legacy. “Richard progressed through multiple levels of the company to become President and CEO due to his extraordinary talents and abilities. He was one of my most trusted and cherished friends and will be sorely missed. Lifetime will not be the same without him,” Mower said.

Utah Governor Spencer Cox expressed his condolences on social media: “Richard was a friend and incredible leader. We are heartbroken by his tragic passing with his daughter Sally. We mourn with the surviving members of his family and pray they will find comfort and healing.”

The accident has prompted a call for safety measures on Highway 39 in Ogden Canyon. A petition on Change.org has been launched to regulate the types of vehicles allowed on the narrow, two-lane road. The petition states, “Ogden Canyon is flanked by the Ogden River on one side and steep mountain cliffs on the other, offering little to no shoulder width in places. Certain large vehicles pose a substantial risk to commuters’ safety.”

The petition has garnered significant support, with over 1,500 signatures. It advocates for a balanced approach that considers economic factors while prioritizing commuter safety. “There is an urgent need to limit the particular categories of vehicles that can drive through this constricted roadway, ensuring the security of all who rely on it,” the petition states.