A visitation for family and friends will be held Wednesday, July 3, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Following the visitation a celebration of Dick's life will be 11:00 AM in the Edgewood Hall of Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 4071 Macon Road, Columbus, Georgia. A private family burial will take place at Ft. Mitchell National Cemetery.
Richard (Dick) was born on May 30, 1943, in Philadelphia, PA to the late Jean Walton. He was a longtime resident of Ellerslie, GA and had a dedication to service, as displayed by his notable career history. He proudly served his country in the Marine Corps from 1962-1969 and the Army from 1969-1972, where he discovered his passion for flying as an Army Aviator. Following his military service, Dick served his local community as a Columbus Police Department helicopter pilot, patrolman, and detective into the late 1990’s. Afterwards, Dick continued pursuing his desire to fly through various helicopter pilot positions. This included stints in the oil fields of the Gulf of Mexico, flying in Alaska, and Air Ambulance. Later in his career, he switched to flying fixed wing aircraft serving those in critical need as a Life Flight pilot and corporate pilot, retiring from Aero Charter.
Dick was an outdoorsman with a passion for nature, the shooting sports, fishing, diving, hunting, and looking for fossils across the southeast. He was also honored to be a Vietnam War veteran, and he enjoyed sharing his interest in military history and antiques through the local Gun Show community. He was always “looking out” for those in need and would help in any way he could. His sense of humor is something he will always be remembered for, and he had the unique ability to make anyone feel like a lifelong friend.
Survivors include his wife and best friend of 61 years, Diane Walton of Ellerslie, GA; his children, Michael Walton (Sandy) of Hernando Beach, FL and Kristine Duncan of Ellerslie, GA; four grandchildren, Katelynn Duncan, Maddy Duncan, Grant Walton, and Hannah Walton; and three brothers, Gordon Stuckert (Mary), David Stuckert (Linda), and Mark Stuckert (Carol).
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Dick’s memory to a charity of your choice.
