Richard Eugene "Dick" Whitacre

Whitacre, Richard Eugene "Dick", aged 76, went home to be with the Lord, Whom he loved, on Monday, 26 January, 2015. Born 20 March, 1938, in Springfield, Ohio to David and Marie Whitacre. Dick attended St Bernard's Elementary, where he led the Dutchmen to a championship football season. He graduated from Catholic Central High School with high marks in Latin but not Chemistry where in tribute to his hero, Errol Flynn, he was kicked out of class for "sword fighting" with the bunsen burners. Dick served in the Army at Fort Knox until 1963 where he obtained the rank of Corporal. He was known on bivouac as the go-to guy for Hershey bars and other assorted snacks. Dick was employed at St Bernard's Elementary for over 30 years, where he touched the lives of the many children he loved to see every day. Dick will be especially remembered for his quick wit and mischievous sense of humor, his dedication and love for family, and the kindness he showed to all who knew him. He was particularly well known for showing up at weddings with a loaf of bread, knowing that the couple was sure to get a toaster or two. Little did they know that a $100 dollar bill was hidden somewhere between the slices. He is preceded on his journey by his father and mother, David and Marie, brothers David, Paul (Bud), James, Robert, and sister Marie (Sis). Dick is survived by his sister, Ruth Whitacre of Medway; children Michele Myers (and Chip) of Vandalia, Michael Whitacre (and Melissa) of Columbus, Matthew Whitacre (and Karin) of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Melissa Whitacre (and Jeff) of Fairborn, and Marlina Greathouse (and Jeff) of Stow. Dick leaves behind his greatest treasures, his grandchildren, Eric, Brian, Lily, Louis, Joseph, Kathryn, Amanda, Kathleen, Blayne, Zac, and great-grandchildren Audrey and Kathryn, many nieces and nephews, and scores of friends. A closed casket viewing will be held at CONROY FUNERAL HOME, Springfield, Ohio, Tuesday, February 3, 2015 from 4 pm to 7pm. Graveside services will be held on Wednesday, February 4, 2015 at 2:30pm in St. Bernard Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family would like you to purchase a lottery ticket in Dick's memory. Additional memorial contributions can be made to Catholic Charities c/o St Raphael Catholic Church, Springfield, Ohio.