Richard Donald Wilhelm, age 63, died on Saturday, April 2, 2011. He was born in Anaconda, MT May 31, 1947 to John Wilhelm and Cecilia Marthaller Wilhelm.
Richard worked many jobs in the Anaconda and Butte area. At the time of his death, Richard had been working in Helena. For the past 11 years, the Motherlode Restaurant and Casino was not only his place of employment but where he considered everyone his friend and extended family.
Richard enjoyed working with wood, trying his luck panning for gold, and playing the poker machines. He was also a skilled pool player. Richard was at his happiest when he was fishing or planning his next fishing trip.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Lorraine Whaley.
Survivors include brothers, John of Anaconda, Gene (Pam) of Anaconda, and Dwayne of Butte; nieces and nephews, Evelyn Dziak, Ed Lorenz, Nadene Lehti, Jeff Baslington, Jason Wilhelm, Greg Wilhelm, and Gina Wilhelm; special great-nephews and niece, Dylan, Lynneah, and Ayden Baslington; several cousins, great-nephews and nieces. Also surviving is his cousin, friend, and most presently his kind and loving caregiver, Lynette Flink.
Cremation has taken place. A Funeral Mass is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. Thursday, April 7, 2011 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Anaconda, MT. Please join the family and friends for a social gathering to celebrate Richard’s life at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, April 9 at the Motherlode Casino. Interment of Richard’s cremated remains will be at Sunset Memorial Garden Cemetery in Butte, MT at a later date. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.aswfuneralhome.com.
Bill & Susie Marthaller says
Richard will be missed. But the comfort to those he left behind will be the knowlege that he will no longer have any sickness, or pain. And that he is united with those loved ones who preceded him.
Darlene Ruane says
We will miss Richard dearly. He will always be in our hearts.
Jeff and Diane Pedersen says
To Richard’s family
Having been customers of the Motherload for many years we came to know Rich and considered him our friend. He was a kind and gental person and he will be missed.
Our prayers are with his family at this difficult time.
JIM AND MAGGIE JOHNSON says
WE ARE SO SORRY FOR RICHARDS DEATH, BUT HAPPY FOR HIS RELEASE FROM PAIN, AND THAT WE HAVE THE KNOWLEDGE WE WILL SEE HIM AGAIN. NOW HE IS HAPPY TO BE WITH HIS PARENTS AND SISTER. WHAT A JOYFUL REUNION THAT IS.
Jim Ficklin says
My heartfelt condolences. Growing-up as a kid in Goosetown wouldn’t have been nearly as much fun if Richie hadn’t been there. Scout out the good fishing holes, Rich . . . and save me a place. God Bless.
John Dziak says
Sorry for your loss , Evelyn.
I hope all else is ok with you and yours.
Nanette says
Our sympathy goes out to Lynette and all of Richard’s family. He was a kind, gentle man and will long be remembered by all that knew him. Peace be with all of you. Nanette and Ron Hicks
Terry and Brenda Wilkinson says
Geno and family, We are sorry for your loss. Rich was such a good guy. We will always remember the times he used to help out with the annual wood cutting event. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.