Retired Colonel Richard Joseph Weigman, a distinguished veteran and beloved resident of Plano, Texas, passed away on December 18, 2023, at the age of 91. Born on March 1, 1932, to Richard Paul and Eva (Risch) Weigman in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Richard led a life marked by service, dedication, and unwavering commitment to his family and country.
Richard married the love of his life, Elizabeth Dulkoski, on September 7, 1957, in Cadiz, Ohio. Their union was a source of strength and companionship, spanning over six decades and creating a legacy of love and family bonds.
A man of great intellect and achievement, Richard earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Park College in Kansas and later obtained his master's in education at the University of California-Davis. His educational pursuits laid the foundation for a life dedicated to both military service and the betterment of young minds.
Richard commenced his military career at the Milwaukee Army National Guard as a security policeman before transitioning to the Army Air Corps, later becoming the United States Air Force. During the Vietnam War, he courageously undertook over 100 missions, exemplifying his commitment to duty and honor.
His illustrious career in the Air Force included serving as Vice Wing Commander at Castle Air Force Base in Atwater, California. Richard culminated his military service as the Inspector General at Offutt Air Force Base in Omaha, Nebraska, retiring with the rank of Colonel.
After his military career, Richard embraced new challenges, working as a real estate agent and appraiser for several years. His dedication to education persisted, as he later found fulfillment teaching 4th and 5th grades for a decade in the Winton School District in California before finally retiring.
In his well-deserved retirement, Richard devoted himself to caring for his beloved wife, Elizabeth, embodying the true essence of love and partnership. His selflessness, kindness, and unwavering support enriched the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know him.
Richard Joseph Weigman leaves behind a legacy of service, love, and devotion. His memory will forever be cherished by his family, friends, and the grateful nation he served with distinction.
He is survived by his children, Kristine Stewart, Richard S. Weigman and wife, Valerie, and Steven S. Weigman and wife, Valerie; grandchildren, Aaron J. Weigman and wife, Rachel, Levi J. Weigman and wife Reva, Ethan M. Weigman and wife, Savannah, Natalie M. Bozarth and husband, Sean, Brandon Iorello Stewart, and David Ross Stewart; great grandchildren, Olivia, Logan, Alexis, Bryce, Weston, Riley, Lux, Harlow, Dahlia, Ivy, Brittany Ricketts and Iverson, Victoria Burns and husband, James, Kelly McAdam and husband, Mike and Arden, Kyle Ricketts, Derek, Amber, and Aryana; great great grandchildren, Braylen, Aniyan, Jaxson, and Salvatore.
Richard was preceded in death by his wife, Elizabeth Weigman; and parents, Richard and Eva Weigman.
A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, December 21, 2023 at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home, 2525 Central Expressway N, Allen, Texas. Interment will follow at Ridgeview Memorial Park. The family will receive friends during a visitation on Wednesday afternoon from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at the funeral home.
The service will be livestreamed at https://celebrationoflife.tv/blog/ret-col-richard-joseph-weigman. After the service, the recorded livestream will be available at the same link location.