John Richards, Sr.

Coffeyville resident, John E. Richards, Sr. died on Thursday, January 17, 2008 in Independence. He was 86. John was born Janaury 22, 1921 in Hugo, Oklahoma to Wilford and Etna Farris Richards. He grew up and attended schools in Coffeyville. He married Marcella Morris in September of 1937. They made their home in Coffeville and he served in the United States Military and was honorably discharged. After his military service he returned to work at Parkersburg Rig and Reel and worked there for 24 years. Later, he retired as a foreman from Funk Manufacturing Company. He enjoyed music and playing the guitar. He also enjoyed working on old cars and fixing them up. John was a member of the Holy Name Catholic Church and a social member of the VFW. He is survived by a son John Richards, Jr. and wife, Bonnie, of Coffeyville; grandaughters, Pamela and husband Ralph Cepero of Midland, Texas and Cheryl Dixon of California. There are seven great grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Marcella; a sister Mildred Gander and a brother Wilford. The Rosary will be recited on Monday evening at 7 pm at the Penwell-Gabel Ford-Wulf-Bruns Funeral Home Chapel. The Funeral Mass will follow at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, January 22, 2008 at the Holy Name Catholic Church. Father Jerome Spexarth will officiate. Burial will follow in the Calvary Cemetery. Friends may call on Sunday, January 20, 2008, from 1 pm until 6 pm and Monday from 9 am until 9 pm at the funeral home to sign the guest register.