April 12, 1940 ~ January 3, 2026

David C. O’Banion, 85, Sioux Falls, SD, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Ava’s House Hospice in Sioux Falls, surrounded by his cherished loved ones.

A Celebration of Life Open House will be held from 5:00-6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at Heartland Funeral Home in Brandon, followed by a prayer service at 6:30 p.m. Inurnment will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at the South Dakota Veterans Cemetery, where David will be laid to rest with the honors he so richly deserved.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to a veterans’ organization in his honor, reflecting his commitment to those who served alongside him.

David Cline O’Banion was born on April 12, 1940, in Grant County, Kentucky, to Steven and Francis (Gray) O’Banion. David graduated from Grant County High School. Soon after, he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army. There, he honed his skills as a marksman, specializing as a sniper, and proudly served for two years before receiving an honorable discharge. His time in the military instilled in him a deep sense of discipline and patriotism that guided him throughout his life.

Following his service, David spent time in Ohio, where he joyfully welcomed two of his daughters into the world. He later moved to California, residing there until 1990, when he relocated to South Dakota. It was in South Dakota that he met the love of his life, Yolanda. The couple married on May 9, 1992, embarking on a beautiful partnership filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support.

David dedicated 47 years of his life to being an over-the-road truck driver, with much of that time spent at Tri-State Flooring. His strong work ethic and reliability made him a respected figure in his field until his well-earned retirement in 2005. In his later years, David found immense pleasure in simple, heartfelt pursuits: crafting intricate dollhouses in his workshop, relaxing on the porch while feeding the birds and squirrels, and, above all, cherishing moments with his wife, children, and grandchildren. His infectious sense of humor was legendary—whether you were a lifelong friend or a passing acquaintance, David always had a ready joke and a warm smile to brighten your day. He lived with an open heart, teaching those around him the value of kindness, resilience, and finding joy in everyday wonders.

Those grateful for having shared in David’s remarkable life include his devoted wife, Yolanda O’Banion of South Dakota; his children, Tonia O’Banion of California, Christine (John) Murphy of California, Tenna Barton of South Carolina, Tammie Messer of South Dakota, and Sam (Michelle) Messer of South Carolina; his 13 beloved grandchildren; his 14 great-grandchildren; and his in-laws, Sharon Schmidt of South Dakota and Lane (Kristy) Munger of South Dakota. One of David’s great grandkids brought him a particular pride by carrying on his name—a testament to the enduring legacy David leaves behind.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Steven and Francis O’Banion; his siblings, Betty (Cline) Wright and Herold (Brenda) O’Banion; and his brother-in-law, Ron Schmidt.

David’s life was a beautiful tapestry of service, adventure, hard work, and profound family bonds. Though he will be deeply missed, his spirit lives on in the stories shared, the laughter echoed, and the love he so generously gave. May he rest in eternal peace.

August 29, 1954 ~ January 3, 2026

Donna J. Nichols, age 71, Brandon, SD, went home peacefully to Jesus on January 3, 2026, at Ava’s House in Sioux Falls, SD, following a long and courageous battle with chronic pain and COPD. Donna’s faith was an important part of her life, and her family finds comfort knowing she is now healed and resting in the arms of her Savior.

A Celebration of Life Open House will be from 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at Heartland Funeral Home, Brandon, SD, with a Time of Sharing beginning directly after. A graveside service will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, January 9, 2026, at Woodlawn Cemetery, Sioux Falls.

Donna Jean Stelzer was born on August 29, 1954, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to Robert and Agnes “Tokey” (Jellema) Stelzer.

Donna took pride in her work and personal accomplishments. She received her GED from Turnabout in 1986, a milestone she was very proud of. She was employed at Brown Drug from 1986 to 1993; a job she often said was her favorite. She later worked as an insurance clerk at Kreisers Inc. from 1993 until her retirement in 2009, where she was known for her dedication and attention to detail.

One of Donna’s most treasured experiences was a trip to Jerusalem in 2006, where she was baptized in the Jordan River—an event she held close to her heart and spoke of often.

Donna found happiness in life’s simple pleasures and in her own creative ideas. She had a great imagination and delighted in coming up with quirky inventions and clever solutions to everyday problems. She often joked that she could give you more than a hundred uses for a clothespin, a reflection of her practical creativity and playful mind. She also enjoyed shopping and selling on eBay, antiquing, fishing, and treasure-hunting at rummage sales. One of her favorite pastimes was working on puzzles, and she could often be found pulling weeds in the garden, always with a bright smile. Donna also had a playful spirit and loved playing Super Nintendo, especially her favorite game, Zombies Ate My Neighbors.

She loved music, especially Neil Diamond, and was overjoyed to see him perform in concert during the final tour of his career. Donna also loved watching movies, particularly classic comedies from the 1980s and early 1990s, which brought her endless laughter and comfort.

A woman of deep faith and distinctive charm, Donna was known for her favorite saying, “If you ain’t Dutch, you ain’t much!” Her passion for cleanliness and order was unmatched, and she took great pride in maintaining a tidy home. She also enjoyed watching Court TV and Fox News and was a devoted Minnesota Vikings fan, faithfully sporting her Vikings gear on game days.

Donna is survived by her two daughters, Kimberly Johnson (daughter of her first husband, Leslie Johnson) and Amanda Christopherson; as well as her son, Jason Burma, whom she did not raise but was very fond of and held close in her heart. She was a proud mother-in-law to Dave and Ezekiel; and a devoted grandmother to Caden, Jackson, Madison, Kennedy, Micah, and Ella. Her love also extended to her great-grandchildren, Oliver and Sapphire. She is further survived by her brother, Douglas Stelzer; brother-in-law, Dave Larson Sr.; stepsister, Cora Martin; her cherished dog, Lilah, who brought her immense joy and comfort; her nieces and nephews; and several cousins near and far.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents, Robert Stelzer and Agnes (Tokey) Becker; her brother, David Stelzer; her sister, Deborah Larson; and her husband, John Nichols. She was also preceded in death by her stepfather, Glen Becker, and her stepmother, Helen Sager.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the compassionate staff at Ava’s Hospice House for their kindness, care, and support during Donna’s final days.

“I know something you don’t know!” — Words from Donna she wanted to share with everyone.

July 30, 1959 ~ December 18, 2025

Janice E. Chatfield, 66, Harrisburg, SD, entered the loving arms of her wonderful savior, Jesus, after a short battle with cancer on Thursday, December 18, 2025.  

A Celebration of Life will be held from 1:00-3:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 10, 2025, at Central Church in Sioux Falls.

Janice Elaine Bartkus was born on July 30, 1959, in Muscatine, IA to Edward and Charlotte (McKillip) Bartkus. She graduated from Muscatine High School in 1978.

Janice loved attending Christian music concerts, traveling the United States, especially the Western part with her parents, watching every musical movie that came out, walking and working out, and shopping.

Her faith was the foundation and stronghold in her life and always trusted in God and his plans.

Romans 8:28 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

Janice is survived by her daughter, Carissa; and sisters, Terri Junker and Denise Tucker.

September 17, 1958 ~ December 18, 2025

(and yes—she would absolutely roll her eyes at her middle name being included)

   Naomi “LeAnn” VandenBussche , 67, Valley Springs, passed away peacefully on December 18, 2025, at the Dougherty Hospice House in Sioux Falls, SD, with her daughter and two oldest grandchildren at her side.

   Only Private Family services will be held. Flowers may be sent to Heartland Funeral Home in Brandon, SD, until Christmas Eve.

   Naomi L. Knock was born on September 17, 1958, in Clear Lake, SD, to Nick and Louise (Hoium) Knock. In her youth, she challenged her parents quite a bit—passing that spirited trait on to her own daughter. Naomi attended Grant-Deuel High School, where she participated in cheerleading, and graduated in 1976. She later attended vo-tech, where she also cheered, beginning a life defined not just by hard work, but by grit, heart, and an unmistakable presence.

   On July 11, 1981, Naomi married the love of her life, Lloyd T. VandenBussche. Together, they built a life rooted in family, resilience, and loyalty, raising their family on a farm in Beaver Creek, MN. Naomi held various jobs over the years, always showing up strong and dependable, and finished out her career at the EROS Data Center, retiring in 2021.

   Naomi loved the Fourth of July—the celebration, the gathering, the food, the feeling of summer and togetherness. She absolutely hated winter and made no secret about it.

   Naomi was strong, resilient, kind, loving, feisty, stubborn, and never one to sugarcoat the truth. She told it like it was—and you always knew exactly where you stood with her. She had a warm, welcoming spirit and a way of making people feel at home, often with laughter close behind. She was so much fun, deeply loyal, and fiercely loving.

   Naomi is survived by her daughter, Deidre (Tanner); her beloved grandchildren, Dante, Loretta, and Sutton; her sister, Nancy (Arlen); her nephew, Tyrel (Lexie); several dear friends; and her cherished cat, Furball.

   Naomi was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Lloyd; her parents; and her infant brother, Lynn.

   The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the compassionate staff at the Dougherty Hospice House for their kindness, care, and support during Naomi’s final days.

   Mom, if reincarnation is real, I hope you are my mom in every lifetime. I love you forever and always.
                                                                            Love, DO

February 4, 1932 ~ December 17, 2025

Melvin “Mel” C. Zuehlke, 93, Sioux Falls, died Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at the Sioux Falls VA hospice cottage.

Visitation for Mel will be 10:00am, Monday, December 22, 2025, at Abiding Savior Free Lutheran Church. (4100 S Bahnson Ave., Sioux Falls, SD). Funeral Services will begin at 11:00am. Interment will be held at Hills of Rest Cemetery, Sioux Falls, with Full Military Honors following a light lunch at the church.

Melvin “Mel” Carl Zuehlke was born on February 4, 1932, to Carl and Anna (Reetz) Zuehlke and grew up on a farm in Grant County, northeastern SD.

Mel’s journey began in Revillo, SD, where he attended school before proudly serving our country in the United States Army. His dedication and service earned him an honorable discharge. Following his military service, Mel worked diligently in maintenance at GTA Feeds until his well-earned retirement.

Mel was an avid outdoorsman with a deep passion for hunting, fishing, trapping, and camping. Retirement allowed him to indulge in these beloved activities more, bringing him immense joy. He was not only a lover of the great outdoors but also a people person who cherished spending time with others and sharing his many stories. His warm and friendly nature made him a cherished member of the Abiding Savior Free Lutheran Church in Sioux Falls, where he found a sense of community and fellowship.

Mel’s legacy continues through his family. He is survived by his wife, Deanna Zuehlke; children, Daryl Zuehlke (companion Nancy), Patti (Ray) Breuer, Jerry (Karla) Zuehlke, Jodie (Rod) Woelfle, and Tom (Heidi) Morrison; his former wife, Carol Crowder; and many grandchildren, who will carry on his memory.

Mel leaves behind a family that will miss him deeply but will continue to share his stories, laugh at his jokes, and remember him with the lightness and love he carried through his life.

December 8, 1940 ~ December 10, 2025

Melvin R. “Dick” Steineke, 85, of Sioux Falls, SD, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.

A Celebration of Life Open House will be held from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at Heartland Funeral Home, 1801 Frontier St., Brandon. Memorial Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at Church of the Good Shepherd, 2707 W. 33^rd Street, Sioux Falls.

Melvin “Dick” Richard Steineke was born on December 8, 1940, at home, in Hartford, SD, to Melvin “Bud” and Virginia (Speilmann) Steineke. He attended Hartford High School and later moved to Sioux Falls, where he began working at Olson’s Lumber. In 1962, he started a long career with John Morrell & Co., retiring in 2001. Never one to sit still, Dick continued working after retirement—first at Gateway, until its closure in 2004, and then at Old English, where he remained until his final retirement in October 2025.

Dick married Rosalie Yesda on June 8, 1962, and together they made their home in Brandon, where they raised their daughter, Dolly (Mike) Taylor of Brandon, along with Rose’s children — Butch Martin of Rapid City, Rhonda (Jim) Bachmeier of Brandon, Fred (Cora) Martin of Sioux Falls, and Jimmy (Ann) Martin of Mitchell — whom Dick loved as his own.

In 1984, Dick moved to Sioux Falls and later married Joanne Holcom on July 8, 1996. Through this union, he also shared a bond with Joanne’s grown children, Heidi Holcom and Eric Holcom.

In his younger years, Dick loved hunting, fishing, and weekends at his lake home on Lake Herman. Later, he spent cherished time at his place on Waubay Lake, where he was known for hosting cookouts, keeping everyone well-fed, and firing up the grill or smoker for family and friends. Dick was a natural caretaker, always looking out for others. He never hesitated to mow a yard, shovel a driveway, or stop by with a warm meal for those who needed it. He enjoyed sitting on the porch, visiting with anyone who stopped by to chat. He never tired of watching his old western shows on repeat, and he kept a close watch on football scores.

Dick will be remembered for his strong work ethic, generous heart, and the warmth he brought to every gathering.

Dick’s legacy lives on through his 18 grandchildren, Tanya (Chris) Lambert, Brittany Taylor, Wendy Stricherz, Stacy Stricherz, Samantha Martin, Amber Martin, Alex (Sophia) McRae-Martin, Riah (Anthony) Cole, Ron Martin, Mike (Darce) Martin, Hailey Samo, Christine Douglas, Jamal Douglas, Carson Holcom, Garrett Holcom, Josie Holcom, Gavin Holcom, and Ainhoa Holcom. He was also blessed with 23 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him great pride and joy.

Dick is also survived by his brother, Gary (Laura) Steineke; and sisters-in-law, Penny Steineke, Marilyn Steineke, and Shirley Steineke.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin “Bud” and Virginia Steineke; his former wife and dear friend, Rose Steineke; brothers, Larry, Jerry, and Donny; sisters and brothers-in-law Donna (Jim) O’Connell, Sharon (Donald) Kelley, Shirley (Jerry) Kelly, and Bonnie (Dick) Grayson; and nephews, Mike Kelley and Richard Steineke.

November 18, 1936 ~ November 26, 2025

Janet G. Waldner, 89, of Sioux Falls, SD, a beloved sister, mother, and grandmother, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at the Tieszen Memorial Home in Marion, SD.

A Celebration of Life Open House will be held from 1:30-2:30 p.m. on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at LifeChange Church, 6300 W. 41st St., Sioux Falls, with a Memorial Service beginning at 2:30 p.m. Inurnment will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at the South Dakota Veterans Cemetery.

Janet Grace Gilbert was born on November 18, 1936, in New Holstein, WI, the third of nine children to Reverend Milford and Violet (Miller) Gilbert. Janet attended a small country school in Clark County, WI, and graduated from Loyal High School in Loyal, WI, in 1954. She continued her education in Minneapolis, MN at North Central Bible Institute and graduated in 1957 with a 3-year degree in Religious Education. In 1960, the company Janet worked for transferred her to an office manager position in Sioux Falls, SD.

Janet was attending the Gospel Tabernacle in downtown Sioux Falls when she was introduced to James Revillo Waldner at an adult social in 1961. They were married that same year on October 7 at the Bethel Assembly of God church in Minneapolis, MN. They made their home in Sioux Falls, SD, where they had two children, David James in 1962 and Darla Jean in 1966. Janet became a stay-at-home mom, helping James with his self-employed gun business. The family enjoyed taking many scenic trips together and visiting relatives.

Janet went back to work outside the home in 1979, doing general office work at the Scale Center in Sioux Falls until 1981, when she started a temporary job at Citibank, N.A., Sioux Falls. In 1982, Janet was hired as a permanent employee, doing various clerical work until her retirement in 2004 with perfect attendance.

Janet loved reading her bible and attending weekly church services and women’s bible study. She was the Sunday School Secretary for 30 years, stepping down in October 1998. She went to many church and women’s events with her daughter, Darla. She also took many trips with her son, David, to see the Minnesota Twins play. Janet enjoyed reading “Chicken Soup for the Soul” books as well as doing word search puzzles. She loved spending time with her grandchildren, who were her pride and joy.

Janet is survived by her son, David Waldner; daughter, Darla (Sean) Tsuji; grandchildren, Ryan Anderson, Eryka Anderson, and Kiara Tsuji, all of Sioux Falls; brothers, Philip (Sharon) Gilbert of Wisconsin, Neiel (Jewel) Gilbert of Wisconsin, and Dale (Kathy) Gilbert of Minnesota; sisters, Ruth Bruesewitz and Debbie Gilbert of Wisconsin; and sisters-in-law, Minnie Gilbert of Minnesota, and Alice Gilbert of Michigan.

Janet was preceded in death by her husband, James; parents, Milford, and Violet; brothers, Allen, Nathan, and Jonathon; brother-in-law, Fred Bruesewitz; and sister-in-law, Ellen Gilbert.

November 29, 1947 ~ November 18, 2025

Larry D. Holland passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Rock Rapids, IA on November 18, 2025, just 11 days shy of his 78^th birthday.

A Celebration of Life will be held for Larry in Rock Rapids on December 7, 2025, at 4:30 pm at the Rock Community Church. A memorial service for Larry will be held on April 25, 2026, at the Methodist Church in Montrose, SD, at 2:00 pm with visitation at 1:00 pm.  Burial will follow at the Montrose Cemetery.

Larry Don Holland was born November 29, 1947, in Fredrick, OK, to Milton and Clara (Zitterkob) Holland. Larry spent most of his life in Montrose, SD, after briefly residing in both Oklahoma and North Dakota. He and his wife, Mary (Ullom), made their way to Rock Rapids, IA, to be closer to family during retirement, where he lived the remainder of his days.

Larry attended Montrose Public School for all twelve years of his early education and was active in football, basketball, track and baseball. He was always well-liked, with a competitive nature that fueled his love for playing games with all of the kids in the neighborhood.

He was passionate about education and after graduating from high school, Larry went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education, with a minor in History and Physical Education from Dakota State University in 1970. He taught World History and Government and also assisted coaching the high school wrestling team at Howard High School for over 40 years.

Larry met his wife, Mary, at the DSU campus library, where she was responsible for overdue books and he always seemed to have a large stack of past-due titles. Larry and Mary were married on August 21, 1971, and to this union, two sons were born: Keith, in April 1978 and Mark, in May 1983.

In 1982, Howard High School administration requested Holland earn a degree in counseling, so he attended South Dakota State University in Brookings in 1982-83 and earned his master’s degree in counseling, then becoming the school’s guidance counselor, in addition to his teaching and coaching duties for the remainder of his career. Larry was incredibly dedicated to all of his roles in education and was known for his commitment to help students in any way possible, even opening his home for those who needed a place to stay from time to time. Larry also picked up the role of bus-driver, simply because there was a need, and continued to provide this service well into his retirement years.

Larry was honored for his dedication to the Howard public schools by former South Dakota Governor, Dennis Daugaard, when April 28, 2017 was officially declared “Larry Holland Day” in South Dakota. Not only did Larry teach, coach, counsel and drive bus, but he also volunteered for several proms, school events and a variety of community activities. Larry was a true helper, always willing to give his time and energy to others.

Some of Larry’s summer jobs, while teaching, included setting up tents for summer camp in Boston, MA, for over 20 years; campground manager; ambulance volunteer; exterior painting; groundskeeper for the Howard Golf Course; and managing his own tent service throughout the state of SD. Of the many jobs Larry performed over the years, teaching history, painting and coaching were his favorite.

As Larry transitioned into retirement, he also began managing low-income housing in 2011, while still teaching at Howard. The majority of his retirement years were spent in Rock Rapids, where he continued to be active in roles such as substitute teacher in the area school districts and eventually driver for the RIDES company. Larry finally retired from all paid work activities in May 2025.

In his free time, Larry enjoyed spending time with family, especially his grandchildren. He also enjoyed gardening – both at home and in the Rock Rapids community garden. Larry also made it a point to follow both Howard and Central Lyon sports and activities. He was on several committees with the Lyon County Democrats, most recently serving as Vice Chair. Not long ago, he and Mary were honored with the “Lifetime Achievement Award” for their volunteer efforts by Iowa state party leadership. Larry was also a very active member of the Rock Community Church. He truly enjoyed staying in touch with friends from over the years, particularly those in the Montrose Breakfast Club.

Larry is survived by his wife of 54 years, Mary; sons, Keith (Pam) and Mark (Kari); along with eight grandchildren, Madelyn, Lauryn, Kassandra, Lincoln, Sofia, Anslei, Zael, and Emery; siblings, Wanda (Ron) Rasmussen, Terry (Genadean), Judy Struck, Jerry, Nancy (Wayne) Warne, and Garry (Jill); and several nieces and nephews.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Milton and Clara Holland; several aunts and uncles; and various nieces and nephews.

February 11, 1955 ~ November 21, 2025

Della A. Wiese, 70, Brandon, SD, passed away on Friday, November 21, 2025, surrounded by her family, at Bethany Home in Brandon, SD.

A Celebration of Life Open House will be held from 5-6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, with a Memorial Service beginning at 6:30 p.m. at Heartland Funeral Home. To watch the Memorial Service via livestream please click HERE.

Della Ann Kuhnert was born on February 11, 1955, in Valley Springs, SD to Orville and Betty (Smith) Kuhnert. She attended Rowena and Valley Springs Elementary schools, and Brandon Valley High School. She was one of seven siblings, Gloria, Allen, Jerry, Jack, John, and Donna.

Della spent her early years working as a waitress, at Burgers-n-More, and running an in-home daycare. She eventually began working at Luverne Truck Equipment in 1991 and stayed there until her disability forced her to retire in 2016.

Della married Terry Wiese on April 30, 1977. They had two children, Amy and Ryan. They divorced in 1993. She met Mark Petersen in 1994, and they have been together ever since.

In her free time, Della enjoyed going to Bingo, crocheting blankets for her grandchildren, cross stitching, putting together puzzles, watching “Wheel of Fortune,” and trying her luck at video lottery. Della lived a simple but fulfilling life, and you always knew that she loved you.

Della is survived by her devoted companion, Mark Petersen; children, Amy and Ryan (Becki); grandchildren, Bre, Mya, Benjamin, and James; Mark’s daughter, Nichole (Trev); Mark’s grandchildren, Tristyn and Caitlynn; and siblings, Gloria, Jerry, Jack, John, and Donna.

Della was preceded in death by her parents, Orville and Betty; and brother, Allen.

June 27, 1926 ~ November 17, 2025

Gerald O. Richards, 99, of Sioux Falls, SD, passed away on November 17, 2025, at the Sioux Falls VA Hospice Cottage, surrounded by his family.

A Celebration of Life Open House will be held from 5-8 p.m. on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at the Casetta Event Space, 201 W 37^th St., Sioux Falls. Contact Fred Richards at 605-251-6894 with any questions.

Gerald Owen Richards was born on June 27, 1926, in Rockport, ME, to Frederick F. Richards and Marion (Carroll) Richards. He was the younger brother of Carroll H. Richards.

Gerald was a proud graduate of Rockport High School, Class of 1944 and Clark University, Class of 1951. Gerald served in the U.S. Army Air Force from 1945–1946, including overseas duty at the Lechfeld Army Air Base in Germany. After returning home, he built a long and

impressive career in remote sensing, image processing, and cartography. He retired in 1992 as Deputy Project Manager for TGS Technology at EROS Data Center, though he never stopped being fascinated by geography or maps. He was also a longtime member of the American Society for Photogrammetry & Remote Sensing (Emeritus member); St. Paul’s Masonic Lodge No. 82 (Rockport); and Gaveler’s High 12 Club No. 91 (Sioux Falls).

Gerald’s family considered him to be their rock. He was always there for them when they needed him—unselfish and giving, with quiet wisdom and strength.

Gerald had an unmatched love for lighthouses, books, photographs, and a good LL Bean sweater. He sent perfectly timed greeting cards and never forgot a birthday.

Gerald loved baseball and basketball, loved his family even more, and never wanted to be a burden, though his family was always grateful for every chance to care for him. His wit was quick, his smile could light up a room, and his satirical humor made ordinary days memorable. He was a great listener and only gave advice when needed.

Gerald was endlessly loyal and deeply loved. To know him was to be blessed by his steadiness, his stories, and his gentle, dependable presence. His family takes comfort knowing he lived a long life filled with love, laughter, curiosity, and optimism.

Gerald was a devoted husband to Nancy Richards and was endlessly proud of his son,

Frederick W. Richards, and daughter-in-law, Jane. Nothing brought him more joy than being “Grampy” to Daniel Richards and Susan Richards (Jordan Craig), and meeting his three great-grandchildren: Audie, Luca, and Jack Craig.

He will be missed beyond measure and remembered for all the beautiful ways he touched our lives.