Richard W. Kelchner, Sr.

Richard W. Kelchner, Sr, 79, formerly of Berwick passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 30, 2017 at his home in York, surrounded by his family.

Born in Berwick on January 11, 1938, he was a son of the late Atlee and Thelma (Whitmire) Kelchner. He graduated from Berwick High School. In 1959 he enlisted in the U. S. Airforce and served honorably until 1976 as an aircraft mechanic. After retiring from the military, he worked at the New Cumberland Navy Base in Mechanicsburg for 15 years.

Richard was a life member of the VFW, and a member of the American Legion. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, camping with his wife, and spending as much time as he could with his family.

Richard married the love of his life, Mary E. (Marshall) Kelchner, on December 30, 1959, making 58 years of marriage on the day of his passing.

In addition to his wife, he will be greatly missed by his children: Patricia Kelchner, Florida; Richard Kelchner, Jr and wife Nylene, Sparta, WI; Denise Moulds and husband Craig, Fisher, MN; David Kelchner and wife Christine, York, PA; Kimberly Venhuizen and husband Scott, Spring Grove, PA; 11 cherished grandchildren and 6 adored great grandchildren. He also leaves behind brothers, Robert Kelchner and wife Joan, Berwick; Charles Kelchner and wife Colleen, Pace, FL; sister, Susan Whitmire and husband Doyle, Berwick; and many nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, January 3, 2018 at Heller Funeral Home, LLC, 633 East Third Street, Nescopeck. Interment will follow in Pine Grove Cemetery, Berwick. Family will receive friends from 10:00 AM until the time of service.

The family will provide flowers. Memorial contributions are suggested to a local hospice organization or the Alzheimer’s Association.

Online messages of comfort may be sent to condolences@hellerfuneral.com.