Richard Wallsten

Richard “Dick” L. Wallsten Sr., age 72, of Stevensville, MI, passed away Monday, September 24, 2012 at his residence. A Celebration of Life Service will be held 1:00 P.M. Friday September 28, 2012 at The Chapel, 4250 Washington Ave., in St. Joseph with Pastor Philip Bubar officiating. Burial will follow at Hickory Bluff Cemetery. Friends may visit from 5:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. Thursday September 27, 2012 at The Chapel, 4250 Washington Ave., in St. Joseph. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to The Chapel, SOS Ministries, or Hospice at Home. Those wishing to view Richard’s obituary online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com Richard was born on April 10, 1940 in Union Pier to Richard and Kathryn (Covert) Wallsten. He grew up on the family farm in Three Oaks. He Graduated From Three Oaks High School in 1958. He joined the Navy Reserves during his senior year. He also was in the Airforce, serving in Vietnam, he then moved to Stevensville where he met and married Yvonne (Tosi) on December 2, 1967 in St. Joseph, together they raised 6 children. Richard had a fulfilling career as a State Farm Agent in Stevensville for 35 years. He was an avid runner completing 8 marathons including the Boston. He and his wife also enjoyed many years of boating on the Amazing Grace and also riding his Harley. Dick had a strong faith in Jesus and desired to share the good news of the Gospel with everyone. He and Yvonne attended The Chapel for 31 years where he sang in the choir and served in other capacities. He loved his family and watching his grandkids grow and sharing his faith with them. Richard is survived by his wife Yvonne Wallsten; sons Greg Schadt, Eric (Jennifer) Schadt, Michael (Sandy) Schadt, Rick Wallsten Jr.; daughters Tamra Urbanovich, and Faith Perakis, 19 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; sisters Merlyn (Jim) Wisner and Cathy Zeiger; brother Don (Pat) Wallsten. Richard was preceded in death by his parents and daughter Tammy Lee Wallsten. “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” II Timothy 4:7