Ernest Richey, 85, Marion, passed away at 5:49 pm on Sunday, September 12, 2021, at Marion General Hospital. He was born in Otisco, Indiana, on Thursday, June 4, 1936, to Dallas and Esther (Hopwood) Richey. On July 15, 1956, he married Virginia Chapel, and she survives.
Ernest graduated from Fairmount High School and retired from General Motors in Marion, where he was a tool and die maker, but his true passion was farming. He was a member of Sunnycrest United Methodist Church, NRA, and UAW.
Collecting coins, stamps, trains, and tractors were special hobbies of his, in addition to researching genealogy. Ernest was a very patriotic man and valued his family very much. Riley Children’s Hospital also had a very special place in his heart.
In addition to his loving wife, Virginia, survivors include his daughter, Vicki Gilbert of Marion; daughter-in-law, Roberta (Jeremy) Fansler of Summerfield, FL; granddaughters, Audra Gilbert, Whitney Gilbert, Desha Richey, and Lacey (Joe) Draper; grandsons, Joseph Richey and Michael (Brooke) Smith; 18 great-grandchildren; and four close brothers.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Wesley Richey; and very special friend, John Little.
The family will receive visitors from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon on Thursday, September 16, 2021, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN.
Immediately following the time of visitation, a service to celebrate Ernest’s life will begin at 12:00 noon with Rev. Mark Helm officiating. Burial will take place at Park Cemetery in Fairmount.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Riley Children’s Foundation, 30 S. Meridian St., Ste. 200, Indianapolis, IN 46204-3509.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com. To send flowers to the family of Ernest Richey please visit our Tribute Store.