Robert L. “Duke” Richards, 87, Churubusco, passed unexpectedly at his home on Monday, June 29, 2020.

Born in Churubusco, on Dec. 15, 1932, to the late Lloyd and Juanita (Davis) Richards. He spent his formative years in Churubusco, graduating from Churubusco High School in 1950.

He served our country in the United States Army from 1951 to 1954.

He was married to Delores Ann Tatman on July 14, 1953. The couple raised their six children in Churubusco.

Duke was a lifelong farmer and retired from Dana in 1996, after 36 years.

He was a member of the American Legion Post #157.

He loved spending time with his family and friends, bluegrass music, camping, IU basketball and coaching his grandchildren in baseball and softball. Most of all he loved his wife, Delores.

Duke is survived by his wife of 67 years, Delores Richards; four daughters, Paula Rollins, Patricia (Rick) Flaherty, Peggy (Monte) Diffendarfer and Pamela (Kevin) Blevins; two sons, John (Nancy) Richards and Frederick (Linda) Richards; two sisters, Joan (Donald) Bingham and Kay (Robert) Harold; 21 grandchildren and 44 great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a grandson, Jimmy Williams.

The family will receive friends at Sheets & Childs Funeral Home on Sunday, July 5, from 2-5 p.m.

In Lieu of flowers, please direct memorials to American Legion #157 and Northern Indiana Bluegrass Association.