Zane Bridger Richins

Zane Bridger Richins, 19, of Mountain Home, Idaho, passed away on July 25, 2026, in Mountain Home. He was born on June 19, 2007, at St. Luke's Hospital in Boise, Idaho, to Clinton Dale Richins and Jennifer M. Richins. Shortly after his birth, he returned home to Mountain Home, where he spent his entire life surrounded by family, friends, and a community he loved.

Zane's earliest years were shaped by his older sister, Audrey, who eagerly introduced him to life with tea parties, imaginative adventures, and even the occasional princess dress-up. Following Audrey's passing in 2009, Zane became an only child until his younger brother, Grant, was born in 2010. From that moment on, Zane embraced the role of big brother and protector, a responsibility he carried with pride and love.

Zane attended East Elementary School, Hacker Middle School, Mountain Home Junior High School, Mountain Home High School, and Bennett Mountain High School. He graduated from Bennett Mountain High School in 2025 while also participating in Auto Technology and Welding courses through Mountain Home High School. He considered himself part of both schools' graduating classes and valued the friendships and experiences he gained from each.

A natural athlete, Zane enjoyed being active and competing. Over the years, he participated in tennis, karate, wrestling, football, golf, and track and field. Wrestling was a passion during his middle and junior high school years, where he competed successfully and won multiple tournaments. In football, he loved playing on the offensive and defensive lines and played from eighth through eleventh grade. Repeated shoulder injuries, including a severe dislocation, ended his football career before his senior year. Rather than dwell on disappointment, he joined the golf team, where he enjoyed learning the game and spending time alongside his younger brother, Grant. During track season, he discovered a talent for throwing events and especially enjoyed competing in shot put.

Zane was happiest outdoors. He loved hunting, fishing, riding horses, working cattle, hiking, and spending time in the mountains and open country. He enjoyed roping, riding on the range in Dubois, and learning from family members, especially during time spent with his Uncle Clay and cousins. He loved animals, particularly horses, cattle, and dogs. Hunting was one of his greatest passions. After years of dedication and determination, he harvested his first elk during the 2025 hunting season and later harvested a deer as well. He also developed a love for duck hunting through friends and was always eager to learn something new. Whatever challenge he took on, he approached it with enthusiasm and determination.

Zane was an outstanding member of Elmore County 4-H Shooting Sports, participating in archery, rifle, pistol, and shotgun. He excelled in every discipline and earned numerous Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion buckles during his six years in the program. He especially enjoyed the friendly competition of trying to outshoot his father and brother.

A proud member of the Mountain Home High School FFA Chapter, Zane found purpose, friendships, and opportunities through agricultural education. He served as Chapter Treasurer during the 2024-2025 school year and earned his State FFA Degree. He had recently submitted his application for the prestigious American FFA Degree. Through FFA, Zane developed a passion and talent for welding. His skills led him to qualify for the 2025 National Welding League Championship through Project MFG, where he was one of only 23 students nationwide selected to compete in Michigan. Though he did not win the championship, earning a place among the nation's best young welders remained one of his proudest accomplishments.

Scouting also played a significant role in shaping Zane's character. Beginning as an eight-year-old Cub Scout, he earned his Arrow of Light and continued through several Boy Scout troops over the years. The leadership skills, work ethic, confidence, and service-oriented mindset he developed through Scouting helped define who he became. In June 2025, he achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, an accomplishment of which he was immensely proud.

Zane loved working with his hands and learning practical skills. During his junior and senior years of high school, he worked for Hiddleston Drilling and Pump, where he helped maintain equipment, manage inventory, service trucks, and assist wherever needed. He particularly valued the mentorship and friendship of those he worked with and enjoyed every opportunity to learn. After graduation, he joined Bideganeta Construction, where he quickly became a valued member of the crew. Although he was the youngest employee, he formed strong friendships and loved sharing stories about the projects he worked on and the lessons he learned each day. His handiwork can be seen on many projects throughout the Mountain Home area.

Zane was preparing to begin the Heavy Diesel Equipment Program at the College of Southern Idaho in Twin Falls. He had completed his registration, received his class schedule, and was excited to move to campus and start coursework in August. He looked forward to building a future doing what he loved: understanding how things work, solving problems, and repairing equipment.

Zane was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His faith in God and the power of prayer guided his life. He faithfully served in church callings, looked out for those around him, and sought to help anyone in need. He valued kindness, friendship, and service. He was also a proud member of the Masonic Order, Fidelity Lodge #80 in Glenns Ferry.

Those who knew Zane will remember his warm smile, strong work ethic, generous heart, and genuine love for people. He never met a stranger and was quick to offer encouragement, lend a hand, or make a new friend. Whether through sports, school activities, work, church, or community service, he had a unique ability to connect with people and make them feel valued. His family, friends, and community were the center of his life, and he loved them deeply and openly.

Zane is survived by his mother, Jennifer Richins of Mountain Home, Idaho; his father and stepmother, Clinton and Angela Richins of Mountain Home, Idaho; his brother, Grant Richins of Mountain Home, Idaho; his maternal grandfather, J.D. Harrison of Tipton, Oklahoma; his paternal grandparents, Dale and Carol Richins of Terreton, Idaho; his maternal aunts and uncles, Shannon (Michael) Brown, Krista (David) Bosco, and Brandon (Nichelle) Harrison; his paternal aunts and uncles, Sharla (Brooks) Cooper, Clayton (Cheree) Richins, and Cody (Sheandi) Richins; and many beloved cousins, extended family members, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Audrey Nicole Richins, and his maternal grandmother, Cherryl Harrison.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the many friends, neighbors, organizations, and community members who have offered support, prayers, kindness, and love during this difficult time. The overwhelming outpouring of compassion has been a tremendous comfort and a testament to the impact Zane had on so many lives.

Funeral Services

Viewing

• Friday, July 31, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
• Saturday, August 1, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.

Location: 790 South Haskett Street, Mountain Home, Idaho

Funeral Service

• Saturday, August 1, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.

Location: 790 South Haskett Street, Mountain Home, Idaho

Burial

Mountain View Cemetery, Mountain Home, Idaho