Richard Joshua Shaw

Richard Joshua Shaw

Richard Joshua Shaw, 84, passed away peacefully April 21, 2008 in Logan. He was born June 25, 1923 in Ogden, Utah, the son of David M. and Gwendolyn Shaw. He was a professor of botany, prolific author, national park naturalist, and most importantly a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His courageous battle with lymphoma for over two decades was a tribute to his strength of character and perseverance.

He was instilled with a love for learning at an early age and graduated from Ogden High School in 1941 before enlisting in the navy. He served his country honorably as a Pharmacists Mate until his discharge in 1946 and cared for many seriously wounded servicemen in the Guam Fleet Hospital during WW II.

Richard believed education was one of the most important and rewarding facets of life and instilled an education ethic in his students, children and grandchildren. He graduated with his BS in Biology from USU in 1947, an MS in Plant Taxonomy in 1950, and obtained a PHD from Claremont Graduate School in 1961. He was an enthusiastic instructor of botany at USU from 1951 thru 1987 and students will always remember him for his energy and passion for plants, biology and the environment. He was a favorite instructor who started his lectures with a joke and presented concepts with creativity and excitement. He was a tough grader who inspired his students to work harder. Richard continued his education with field trips in the Tetons and many other locations. By learning and teaching in the field he increased the appreciation of wild flowers and plants for everyone he knew.

His slide shows and guided all day hikes were enjoyed by many park visitors. Days off were spent with the family fishing, hiking, boating, or simply enjoying the outdoors. He climbed the Grand Teton in 1950 and 1980. For more than a decade after his retirement he trained many naturalists in Grand Teton and Great Basin National Parks about plants and ecosystems. Richard authored numerous books on plants and wild flowers which are noted for their clarity, organization, and beautiful photography and illustrations. His books have been a staple in Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and elsewhere for over 50 years. He served as Director of the Intermountain Herbarium at USU and added hundreds of specimens to its collection.


Richard married the love of his life, Marion Abplanalp on June 27, 1947. They were a devoted couple who worked together and served each other for more than 60 years until Marion passed away in February 2008. He is survived by three children, Richard (Sarah) Shaw of Aspen, Colorado, Margaret (Brent) Mortensen of Logan, and Sandra (Todd) Hugie of Nibley as well as 11 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. He was proceeded in death by his parents and his brothers Dave, Frank and Ed.

A short slide show and memorial service to celebrate his life will be held Friday , April 25th at noon at the Allen-Hall Mortuary at 34 East Center Street in Logan. There will be a viewing from 6-8 pm on Thursday April 24rd and from 10:30 to 11:50 am on the 25th. Interment will be in the Logan City Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.allenmortuaries.net . Donations in his memory may be made to Grand Teton Association at PO Box 170, Moose Wyoming, 83012.