Richard “Rich” J. Middendorf (82) passed away Tuesday February 13th 2024 in St. Charles, MO. surrounded by his loving family. Richard was born on August 2nd 1941 in Pittsburgh, Virginia to Henry and Katherine Middendorf. Rich was a devoted and loving husband to Mary (Portwood-Westhoff) Middendorf of 7 years, and the late Linda J. “Samm” Middendorf of 43 years.
Richard enjoyed spending time with his four adult children, Shanon (Allen) Tuell, Jamie (Richard) Weber, the late Jeffrey (Jennifer) Middendorf, and Brian Middendorf.
Rich had 8 grandchildren that he took tremendous pride in; Michael Lee, Amanda (Eric) Singleton, Marcus (Misty) Zavadil, Taylor Shine, Kelsey (Steven) Littrell, Richard C. Weber, William Middendorf, and Kate Middendorf and 10 great-grandchildren, Maryjane, Kaiden, Landry, Hayleigh, Eric Jr., Mason, Owen, Jayce, Kilyn and Harper. He is also survived by his brother, Quentin (Alice) Middendorf, nieces, nephews, and many friends who loved him and will miss him dearly.
The military was a part of Richard’s core. Richard served as a Captain in The United States Army in The Vietnam War, was a P.O.W. twice, and had the helicopter that he flew shot down 5 times, and survived! He was very active at his local American Legion Post 312, holding positions as Chaplin and Commander during his membership, and helped organize monthly Spaghetti Dinners, Friday Night Bingo, and leading Bingo at The Veteran’s Home. Rich was also a member at the VFW 4219 in Orchard Farm, MO. He also participated and spoke at March to the Arch for several years.
Rich dedicated many years to training before earning his Black Belt in Tai Kai. In his spare time he enjoyed reading the paper, doing a crossword, golfing, traveling with his wife and catching breakfast at Lady Di’s. Somehow he made time to donate 13 gallons of blood to The American Red Cross over his lifetime, an accomplishment he was extremely proud of!
A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday February 19th 2024 at 12pm at:
The American Legion Post 312
2500 Raymond Dr.
St. Charles, MO. 63301
The family asks that in lieu of flowers,
donations be made to The American Legion Post 312.
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