Tributes

Richard Joseph Wilson, a devoted family man, person of deep faith, and proud veteran, passed away peacefully on June 11, 2024 in Merrillville, Indiana at the age of 96. Born on March 13, 1928 in Hammond, Indiana to Frank and Helen Wilson, Richard grew up to embody the values of hard work, integrity, and commitment to community. After graduating from Hammond High School, he spent his career as a carpenter for the School City of Hammond, serving as treasurer of the Carpenters Union Local 599 and later as Director of the Indiana Carpenters Federal Credit Union for 9 years. Richard's true calling, however, was his family. On December 28, 1949, he married the love of his life, Peggy JoAnn. Together they raised five children - Laura Ostergard (Dan) of Stewartville, MN, Carolyn Wilson of Merrillville, Scott Wilson of Chattanooga, TN, and two deceased sons David and James. Richard's life was further enriched by his grandchildren Heidi Owens of Lakeville, MN; Butch Bardwell of Stewartville, MN; Holly Rakovan of Fort Worth, TX; Richard Bardwell of Rockville, MD; Sam Ostergard (Janelle) of Ukiah, Bangladesh; and Micah Ostergard (Cassy) of Cologne, MN. His legacy extends to his great-grandchildren Austin, Tyler, Nick, Ella, Oumar, Kadiah, Kalle, and Aria, and his great-great-granddaughter, Willow. A devoted man of faith, Richard was an active member at First Baptist Church of Hammond, serving as a deacon and teaching Sunday School for many years. His faith provided guidance throughout his life. Richard's devotion to his country was equally unwavering, having served in the United States Navy during the Korean War aboard the USS Lake Champlain. Richard Wilson will be dearly missed and forever remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His life was a testament to the virtues of service, hard work, and unwavering love for his family and community. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Richard's neighbors, whose thoughtfulness and care in recent years, including mowing the lawn and watching over Richard and Peggy, have been a true blessing. Friends and relatives may visit with family on Monday, June 17, 2024 from 11 a.m. until the time of the service at 1 p.m. at Memory Lane Funeral Home 6305 W. Lincoln Hwy Crown Point, IN 46307.

Tributes

Richard Wilson

March 13, 1928 - June 11, 2024