Harlan Robert Richter

Harlan Robert Richter, age 91, passed away at his home on October 27^th with loved ones by his side. 

Harlan was born February 10, 1932, in Leroy, Texas, to Gustav and Mary Richter.  He had five brothers and three sisters.  He attended school at the Leroy Schoolhouse until High School, where he attended West High School.  He was just shy of his 19^th Birthday when he enlisted in the US Marine Corp.  He proudly served three years which included a tour in Korea as part of the 8^th tank battalion.  He earned the rank of Staff Sergeant and continued with an additional 12 years as a reservist.

Harlan married Vernelle Jean Ullrich in 1954, and the two of them raised five children while living in Waco.  He earned his living as a machinist and worked for Young Brothers Construction for some years before finishing his career and retiring from Gulf States Paper Corporation in 1996.

Harlan was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing.  In addition to spending time with his family, he spent most days of his retirement tending to his large flower and vegetable garden which he kept going year-round. He loved providing fresh vegetables to family, neighbors, and friends.  He especially enjoyed sitting under the pecan trees or on the banks of the Brazos, next to his home, with a cold beverage and friends.

Harlan is preceded in death by his wife, Vernelle; his two sons, Clayton Richter and Russell Richter; two of his brothers, Jerry Richter and Roland Richter; and two of his sisters, Lora Mae Uptmore and Rose Marie Richter.  He is survived by three daughters, Kellis Richter and husband Rodney Gooch, Felica Cervenka and husband Robert, and Coyia Richter; three brothers, Garlan Richter, Hershel Richter, and Larry Richter and wife Julie; one sister, Leona Jackson; his friend of over 50 years and honorary brother, Pete Martinka.  He was known as “Opa” to his five grandchildren; Danielle Leathers and husband Justin; Mathew Richter and wife Anna; River Richter and wife Jade; Hannah Kubacak and husband Collin; and Rachel McPherson and husband Devon.  In addition, he was blessed with eleven great-grandchildren.

The family would like to thank Amber and Jose of Baylor Scott and White Hospice for the tender and respectful “at home care” he received in his final few days.

Visitation will be held at Waco Memorial Park Funeral Home in Robinson from 6-8:00 pm on Friday, November 3^rd. Services will be held at Waco Memorial Park Mausoleum at 11:00 am on Saturday, November 4^th. Pallbearers will be Mathew Richter, River Richter, Justin Leathers, Collin Kubacak, Devon McPherson, and Pete Martinka.

Memorials can be made to VFW Post 4819 in West, Texas.