Rapid City - Richard L. Parham, beloved patriarch, and proud veteran of World War II, passed away in his home at the age of 98 on June 22, 2023, in Rapid City.

Richard was born in Kingfisher, Oklahoma to Fred L. and Ada Isabel (Steen) Parham on January 25, 1925. He graduated High School and was attending OSU in Stillwater, OK when he was drafted into the US Army during WW II. Richard, earning the rank of Corporal, served in the South Pacific as a radio operator in the 96th Infantry Tank Company. He was wounded in battle and received a Purple Heart.

After the war ended, Richard returned home and began his 40-year career with American Airlines in Tulsa. In 1948, Richard married Anna R. Pitts. From this union, two children were born: Richard Jr. and Jan. In 1965, Richard married Wanda J. Hemphill and they were blessed to celebrate 50 loving years together before her passing in 2016. He and Wanda loved to travel and spend time with family.

Richard enjoyed gardening and always had the most beautiful lawn. Even well into his 80's, Richard loved helping friends and family with household projects and maintenance, whether it was indoors or outdoors, regardless of weather.

In 2021, Richard was honored to be the Grand Marshal in the Rapid City Veterans' Day Parade, and in 2022, he was the recipient/honoree of the Passing of the Flag at the Black Hills National Cemetery Memorial Day Service.

Richard will be remembered as a very friendly, selfless man, with a beautiful smile. He was always willing to lend a hand to anyone. Richard's warmth, kindness, and wisdom touched the lives of countless individuals, leaving a mark on the hearts of all who knew him. Above all else, Richard cherished his family. He was the most loving and caring father. He was a model grandad, never missing a ball game, ballet recital, or concert. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the love of his life.

The family deeply appreciates the kindness and warmth of the staff and residents of St. Martin Village, with special thanks to Crystal Connot and good friend Pete Geyerman.

Richard is survived by his daughter Jan (Rob) Wechsler, grandchildren: Eric Parham, Katie (Wayne) Parham, Justin Parham, Rick (Lisa) Hamilton, Danny Hamilton, James (Deidre) Hamilton, and Natalie (Matt) McCray, great-grandchildren: Noah, Jhet, Layla, Ella, Paxton, Knox, Rory, and Lo, and many nieces and nephews.

Richard is preceded in death by his parents, his wife Wanda, brothers: Bill, Ronald, and Lloyd, and his son Richard Parham Jr.

His family has so many precious memories and his life will be celebrated for years to come.

Visitation will begin at 9:00 am Thursday, June 29, 2023 at Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home with Funeral Service at 10:00 am led by Chaplain Herb Cleveland. Burial will be at 12:00 noon at Pine Lawn Memorial Park with full military honors provided by Rushmore VFW Post #1273 and South Dakota Army National Guard Honor Team.