William E. "Bill" Richards

William E. “Bill” Richards passed away late Saturday night, March 25, 2023 at the Southwest Montana Veterans Home in Butte with his family at his bedside. He was born in Butte Saturday, July 3, 1948 to Ernest and Violet (Rowe) Richards. He attended Butte schools before joining the United States Marine Corp where he served two tours in Vietnam. Bill received many honors during his military service and most notably was honored with the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with palm and frame and bronze star. Following his honorable discharge, Bill returned to Butte where he worked as a Mechanic for Jim Kraut Chevrolet. Bill re-enlisted in the Montana National Guard and eventually took a full-time position in the Guard until his retirement. He married Helen L. Sundberg in Butte on December 9, 1972 and together they welcomed their only daughter, Janet. This past December they proudly celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. There was always a sparkle in his eye when he was able to spend time with his two grandchildren, MacKenzie and Connor. Bill was a member for the Marine Corp League and a past member of the Teamster’s Union. Bill’s dedication and service continued into his personal life. He used his love of cars as an outreach to others. Many family and friends share fond memories of their “garage time” with him. He was always willing to help anyone he saw who was in need. He is survived by his wife, Helen Richards, daughter and son-in-law, Janet and Stephen Coe and grandchildren, MacKenzie and Connor Coe all of Butte. Also surviving are his brother, Bob Richards of Butte, sisters and brothers-in-law, Donna and Jerry Smith of Butte, Bonnie and Dan Corder of Deer Park, Washington, sisters-in-law, Eileen Eamon, Margie (Joe) Scown and Chris Ketchum all of Butte as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins including Joyce James. Besides his parents, Bill is preceded in death by his brother John Richards and sister, Janie Fredrickson. Cremation has taken place. Memorial services will be conducted Monday morning, April 3rd, 2023 at 11 o’clock in Wayrynen-Richards Funeral Home and entombment will be in Mountain View Cemetery. Memorials can be made to the Southwest Montana Veterans Home or an organization of one’s choosing. “And When He Gets To Heaven, To Saint Peter He Will Tell ‘Just Another Soldier Reporting, Sir, I’ve Served My Time In Hell.”

Tributes

William E. "Bill" Richards

July 3, 1948 - March 25, 2023