Richard G. Phelps

Richard G. Phelps, 88, of Bucyrus took his last breath on earth and his first in heaven Thursday, June 28, 2018. He was being cared for at Altercare of Bucyrus with assistance by Kindred Hospice.



He was born in Shelby, Ohio on December 24, 1929 to the late Raymond G. and Mary L. (Ervin) Phelps. Dick was raised in rural Richland County and graduated from the former Union High School. He served in US Army from 1951-1953 and upon returning married Donna Forman in the Shelby Nazarene Church on May 7, 1953. Richard and Donna raised their family in Ohio and Oklahoma with seven moves over the years. He spent most of his work career in the vending business, retiring as a supervisor after 36 years.



Richard will be remembered as a quiet and devoted man of faith and family man. A lifelong Nazarene, he served as a greeter, on church boards, and was a current member of the Bucyrus Nazarene Church. His family cherished their get-togethers and camping adventures whether in the great outdoors or even their backyard. He enjoyed the company of many dogs over the years and will be missed by his current canine companion, Fanny. He was also a devoted blood donor, having given over 32 gallons over his lifetime.



Dick is survived by his bride of 65 years, Donna Phelps; five children, Cindi (Randy) Nigh of Wooster, David (Sharon) Phelps of Colorado, Tamra (J.R.) Minshall of Alabama, Jenny (Craig) Schafer of Sycamore, and Daniel Phelps of Bucyrus; 11 grandchildren, eight great grandchildren with one expected; and his sister Lois (Emory) Thornton of Galion. He was preceded in death by his parents; one granddaughter; and a great-grandson.



The Phelps family will receive friends at Wise Funeral Service, 129 W. Warren St. in Bucyrus, on Sunday, July 1 from 2-5 pm. His funeral will be held at the Bucyrus Nazarene Church, 2165 Ohio 4 South, on Monday at 10:00 am and will conclude with military rites by the US Army and American Legion Post 181 Honor Guards.



Memorial donations may be made payable to Bucyrus Nazarene Church (for missions) or American Red Cross and given through the funeral home. Memories and photos can be shares on Richard’s Tribute Wall.