Thelma Richter

Thelma W. Richter, age 92, of Lexington, passed away early Saturday morning, February 16, 2013 at MedCentral Hospital after a brief illness. Born July 26, 1920 in Bellville, she was the daughter of Benjamin Franklin and Edith (Grice) Wells, growing up on a farm near Bellville. She was a graduate of Bellville High School.

Thelma had worked for Maginess Power and Tool, Alta Greenhouse, and retired as a supervisor from Hi-Stat Mfg. in Lexington. She enjoyed bowling and bowled in a league until she was in her 80s. She also enjoyed sewing, crocheting, playing cards, dancing, puzzles, flower gardening; and traveling especially to festivals and parades. She enjoyed her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Thelma was a member of Ladies’ Auxiliary, VFW Post 5101, Lexington, Ladies’ Auxiliary Moose Lodge #341, Mansfield, where she volunteered in the kitchen preparing meals for many years, and a member of AARP.

She is survived by sons, Robert (Bonnie) Richter and Larry (Pam) Richter, all of Mansfield; daughter, Patricia Hammon (Cecil Stigall) of Daytona Beach, FL; grandchildren, Mike (Sherri) Richter of Lexington, Brian (Tracy) Richter of Westerville, Rob (Lori) Richter of Mansfield, Shannon (Jeff) Reiser of Bellville, Tammy O’Bleness of MS, John (Debbie) Hammon of Lucas, Darron Hammon of Sandusky, and Kelli (Andy) Taracko of Mansfield; 16 great grandchildren; and one sister, Jo Ann Cooper of Bladensburg.

Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Leo Richter on September 19, 2012, with whom she celebrated 71 years of marriage in April 2012; infant son, Gerald Richter; granddaughter, Susan O’Bleness; sister, Juanita Hoffman; two brothers, Raymond Wells and Jason Wells.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, February 20, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. at the Diamond Street Home of Wappner Funeral Directors, 98 S. Diamond St., Mansfield, conducted by Pastor Russell. Friends may call one hour prior to the service from 1:00-2:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Mansfield Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Richland County.