John Roger Richey

JOHN ROGER RICHEY, 88, of Bluffton, died on Saturday, Aug. 8, 2009, 2:30 a.m., at Bluffton Regional Medical Center. Born on May 5, 1921, in Bluffton, son of the late John L. Richey and Carrie E. (Heche) Richey, he graduated from Bluffton High School in 1939 and studied for 2 years at the International Business College. Mr. Richey was a World War II U.S. Marine veteran, having served our country from 1942 to 1945. Mr. Richey was awarded The Purple Heart Medal for wounds received as a result of enemy action in the Asiatic-Pacific Area on Feb. 22, 1945. He married Rosemary (Lucas) Richey on June 16, 1945, in Bluffton; she survives in Bluffton. He was an Industrial Engineer for Franklin Electric Company for 28 years, retiring in 1982. Prior to his employment with Franklin Electric, he worked nine years at International Harvester Corporation. He was a member of the Bluffon Tiger Athletic Hall of Fame, Bluffton Elks Lodge, American Legion Post 111, Disabled American Veteran's and First Reformed Church of Bluffton. In addition to his wife, he is survived by one daughter, Diana Brennan (husband, Gary) of Fort Wayne; one son, Doug Richey (wife, Lori) of Fort Wayne; five grandchildren, Natalie Bassett (Marty) of Fort Wayne, Nathan Hay of Bluffton, Stacey Hubbard (Ryan) of Chicago, Ill., Meghann Whetstone (Jeremy) of Fort Wayne and Katie Richey of Vincennes, Ind.; and five great-grandchildren, Spencer Massey of Montpelier, Grant Bassett and Patrick Bassett, both of Fort Wayne and Jase Small and Taylor Small of Montpelier. He was preceded in death by one sister, Josephine Warner; and one brother-in-law, Glenn Warner. Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Thoma/Rich, Chaney & Lemler Funeral Home, 308 W. Washington Street, Bluffton, with calling one hour prior. Dr. Gene Bell officiating. Calling also from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Burial in Elm Grove Cemetery, Bluffton, with Military Graveside rites by American Legion Post 111 and the U.S. Marine Corps Honor Guard. Preferred memorials to First Reformed Church of Bluffton, Wells County Animal Shelter or Panos Free Clinic. Online condolences may be sent to www.thomarich.com

John Roger Richey

May 5, 1921 - August 8, 2009