Richard L. Willems, 69, died at St. Francis in Wichita on July 5, 2014. He was born January 25, 1945 in Newton to Kathryn (Buller) and Jacob T. Willems.
He grew up in Hesston on a farm, moving with his family in 1959 to Newton. After he graduated from Newton High School, he inlisted in the United States Army Airborne and fulfilled three years of service.
He enjoyed staying busy and working with his hands. He spent many hours working on cars and hanging out at the welding shop with his brother Rudy. He enjoyed watching racing and spending time with his beloved dog, Brandy. He was a member of the First Mennonite Church in Newton.
Preceding him in death were his parents.
Survivors: brother, Rudy (Beverly) Willems, Newton and one sister, Helen (Darryl) Zielke, Bothel Washington and two daughters, Jennifer M. Willems, Texas and Teresea D. Willems, Hutchinson.
Gravewide services will be July 15 at GreenwoodCemetery in Newton. Cremation has taken place.
