Richard Maurice Deutscher

Richard Maurice Deutscher, age 91, was born in Michigan City, Indiana on February 5, 1927. His parents were Helen and Rudolph Deutscher. His siblings included Adeline Wingard, Anita McKee, Walter Deutscher, and Daniel Deutscher, all of which are deceased.

Richard grew up on a farm in Indiana that raised livestock, multiple crops including corn and tomatoes. The family raised tomatoes for processing at the local ketchup processing plant.

Richard joined the military after high school and proudly served in the army in WWII. He was part of the "Greatest Generation". It was in his military service that he met the love of his life, Martha Jo Wells. They were married on December 7, 1946. They were married until Martha's death on January 25, 2008. They were married for 62 years. They had 3 children, David, Tommy, and Terry during their marriage together.

During his time in the military, Richard went to school to get his education in television and electronical repair. He worked for Sears Roebuck company as a television repair technician and then as a customer service manager until his retirement.

Richard was a longtime member of the American Legion Post 1 in Raleigh. There he developed lifetime and loving friendships with many members of Post 1. Richard served on several committees and served as vice commander at Post 1 and was proud to be honored as one of the "Greatest Generation". One of these honors was that he was selected to take the "flight of honor" to Washington D.C. to tour the WWII memorials. The flight of honor was one of the most special memories that he talked about until his death.

Richard was also a longtime member of Grace Lutheran Church in Raleigh. At Grace Lutheran, Richard shared a strong faith and fellowship with many of the church's members. Several of the members were loving friends that visited with Richard in his failing health until his death.

Richard is survived by his son David, his daughter Terry, 7 grandchildren, and many great-grandchildren.

Richard had a warm and gentle spirit that welcomed anyone that met him. Everyone that met Richard talked about what a special and beautiful smile he always wore on his face. His smile and spirit will be greatly missed by all. Rest in peace Richard. We all love you.