Cdr Richard O. Wenger, USN

Richard O. Wenger, age 86, of McKean, passed away Sunday, June 5, 2022. He was born in Underwood, North Dakota on March 5, 1936, son of the late James and Emma Wenger.

Richard graduated from University of North Dakota, where he was a member of Sigma Nu Fraternity. He attended Officer Candidate School in Newport, Rhode Island and was stationed in Hawaii, where he met and married his wife, Patricia. He then attended Flight School in Pensacola, Florida, and started a 20 year career as a Naval Aviator, including several hundred carrier landings. Richard served five tours of duty during the Vietnam War, achieving the rank of Commander. He retired to a farm in McKean, PA in 1980 and enjoyed raising Morgan Horses and a few cattle. He also worked in various local markets and operated Wenger Vending.  

In addition to his parents, Richard was preceded in death by his brother, Kenzie Wenger; sisters Althea Wenger and Grace Carlson; and his grandson, Jory Giger. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Patricia; his brother, Donald Wenger (Cindy), daughters, Lynne Giger and Jean Kuchcinski (Jim); granddaughters, Chandra Yeschenko (Brian) and Kaylee Barton (Will); grandson, Logan Giger (Tricia); great-grandchildren, Rylan, Hudson, and Londyn Yeschenko, and Jennifer and Timothy Giger; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. We love you Beba, always and forever.

Richard faithfully served as an elder for many years at Trinity Luthern Church, 14 East 38th Street, where a Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, July 9th, at 11 am conducted by Rev. Travis Schmidt. Military Honors will be rendered by the American Legion Carl Neff Post 571. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Shriners Hospital for Children, 1645 West 8th Street, Erie, PA 16505. Arrangements are being handled by the Dusckas Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc.