Mr. Richter worked in heating and air-conditioning. He retired from Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 101. James proudly served his country in the United States Air Force during the Korean Conflict from 1950 to 1954.
He was a longtime member of St. Augustine of Canterbury Parish, Belleville, IL, the Holy Name Society at the church, the Catholic Knights & Ladies of Illinois, and Belleville-Swansea Moose Lodge 1221. Everyone who knew Jim knew he loved working on projects and building things. He was a true “fixer-extra-ordinaire” and was always willing to lend a helping hand to his family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, William G. and Adele A., nee Haas, Richter; and two brothers, Cyril W. Richter and Eugene J. Richter.
Surviving are his loving wife of 64 years, Verna Jean, nee Gruenewald, Richter, whom he married on October 16, 1951;
four sons, David J. Richter of Shiloh, IL,
Richard A. (Donna) Richter of Freeburg, IL,
Kevin J. (Sandy) Richter of Belleville, IL,
and Thomas C. (Toni) Richter of Belleville, IL;
eight grandchildren, Ryan Richter, Clayton Richter,
Kyle (Tessa) Richter, Chad Richter, Kimberly Richter, Bryce Richter,
Kaitlyn (Stephen) Gregory, and Amanda (KC) Merckel;
three great-grandchildren, Richter and Emery Gregory, and Aurelia Merckel;
a brother, Robert R. (Sally) Richter of Belleville, IL;
three sisters-in-law, Pat Gruenewald, Loyce Williams, and Carolyn Richter;
and nieces and nephews, including a special niece, Ann (Dave) Radil,
and great-nephews, Josh Radil and Todd Radil.
Memorials may be made to St. Augustine Catholic Church or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Visitation: Friends may visit with the family from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, April 12, 2016, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL, and from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 13, 2016, at St. Augustine of Canterbury Catholic Church, Belleville, IL.
Funeral: A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 13, 2016, at St. Augustine Catholic Church, with Msgr. William McGhee officiating. Burial with military honors will follow at Green Mount Catholic Cemetery, Belleville, IL.
Condolences Left For James Richter
Jean and family: There just aren’t enough words to express my sympathy. We just have to remember all of the times in the past that were so wonderful and Thank God for giving him a long and good life!
Ruth Berkel, , , 62269
May God be with all of you and bring you comfort and peace. Our prayers are with you now and in the days to come.
Joe and Kathleen Davis, Linwood, Kansas, 66052
Rick, Donna, Clayton: I was saddened to hear about the passing of your father/grandfather. I didn’t know him well but the few times I was in his company he seemed to be a truly special person. My condolences go out to you and your entire family.
Terri Mineman, Belleville, Illinois, 62220
Please accept our deepest sympathy. We were sorry to here of your loss.
Bill and Pat Biehl, Belleville, Illinois, 62221
Rick and Donna, I was so sorry to here of your dads passing. I remember him back when my dad worked with him. He was so nice. My thoughts and prayers are with you both and your family.
Kathy Parres, Columbia, Illinois, 62236
To Verna and Family, we are so very sorry for the loss of your dear friend and husband.May prayers go your way.
Bob and Sally Stauder
Robert and Marcella Stauder, Swansea, Il, 62226
Jeannie and your family, I am so sorry for your loss of a wonderful husband and father Jim. We love him so much and will cherish the memories of your family. You are in my thoughts and prayers always. Love Marsha and Ray
Marsha Vernier Daudelin, Naperville, Il, 60563