Richard Lee Stopher

Elida - Richard Lee Stopher, 67, died at 10:30 p.m., Nov. 26, 2009 at Ohio State Medical Center, Columbus.

He was born, Aug. 11, 1942 in Delphos to Gilber and Edna Ditto Stopher, who preceded him in death. On July 16, 1966, he married Phyllis Glancy, who survives in Elida.

Mr. Stopher retired from the U.S. Postal Service as a personnel director. He was a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, serving in Japan and at Paris Island. He enjoyed spending time with his kids and grandkids and spending time outside. He was a Buckeye fan and loved the holiday season and his best friend “Smokey the Dog.” He was a member of West Side Methodist Church and the American Legion in Lima.

Survivors include a son, Andrew Stopher, of Elida; three daughters, Stephanie (Steve Krites) Stopher, of Lima, Jodi (William Lotz) Stopher, of Cridersville, and Krista (Kevin) Jones, of Elida; six grandchildren, Torrye, Dylin, Dravyn, Bryn, Corbyn and Bractyn; and special friends, Mike and Angie Hosterman.

He was preceded in death by two sons, Todd and Eric Stopher; a brother, Rodger Stopher; and a sister Dorothy Bardo.

Services will begin at 11 a.m. Monday at Harter and Schier Funeral Home. The Rev. William Cronk will officiate. Burial will be in Trio Cemetery, Columbus Grove. Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to West Side Methodist Church.