OBITUARY: Richard ‘Dick” Verschelden

Richard “Dick” Verschelden, woke up in heaven on Dec. 14, 2020.

He passed away at his home, surrounded by his wife, children, grandchildren,and in the care of The Good Shepherd Hospice of Newton.

Dick, as he was known by his family and oldest of friends, was born on July 17, 1950, in Manhattan, the youngest child of Ernest and Josephine (Newton) Verschelden. His early years were spent on a farm outside of Burns. He attended Burns grade through middle schools and graduated from Peabody-Burns High School, class of 1968. He then attended Emporia State University.

Most of his life, Dick worked in factories: Hesston Corp., Boeing, then transitioned over to Spirit Aerosystems, where he retired in 2012.

Richard loved spending time with his family and was happiest when the grandchildren would come over. He could always be found outside, tinkering in the yard with the kids or messing with his garden, always growing beautiful plants and flowers. But them darn tomatoes!

Never afraid of hard work, he loved going over to Peabody and helping his friends Fred, then later on Jeff, with cutting, mowing, raking, whatever was needed. He was born and raised a Chiefs and KU fan. He loved it when he got to go to the games! Chiefs games with Betty W. and KU with either Fred or his brother-in-law Ed.

Richard is survived by his wife, Marti Lee; sons, Brian Verschelden and Jason Avants; and daughter, Bonnie Garcia, plus nine wonderful grandchildren; brother, James (Jim) Verschelden and wife Pat, Auburn Ill.; sister, Marilyn and husband Edwin Church, Bonner Springs; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Richard was called many names in his life: son, brother, husband, dad, grandpa, coworker, patient, (Wilson), but to all, the best name was “friend.”

Services are scheduled for 10 a.m. Saturday, May 29, at First Christian Church in Newton, with Pastor Gary Bell presiding.

Memorials are suggested to the church in care of Petersen’s Funeral Home. No graveside service planned at this time. Memorial donations may be made to First Christian Church in care of Petersen Funeral Home.

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