Richard Francis DeKleine

Capt. Richard F. DeKleine, USAF (retired) ,77, a kind and gentle soul, with a wicked wit and an amazing smile that warmed so many hearts, died on Thursday, May 7, 2020 from Alzheimers.

Richard's military career took him to Vietnam in 1966, as an air traffic controller.  He served in Germany for five years as well as several stateside bases.  After his military career, he worked for 18 years for the Department of Defense as a civilian, retiring in 2004.

He is survived by his loving and dedicated wife, Susan; his children, Anthony (Sheri), Kimberly Halder (Eric), and Kendria DeKleine; nine grandchildren; and 6 and 3/4 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, William DeKleine (Robin); nephew, Scott, and nieces, Kelly and Kristen.  Last, but not least, he is survived by his emotional support dog, Deke.

Richard was predeceased by his first wife of 32 years, Felicia; parents, Dr. E. Hoyt and Frances DeKleine; and faithful dog, Andy.

A private burial with military honors will take place in Buffalo, New York.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Richard’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N Michigan Avenue., Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601 or to the Memory and Movement Center, 300 Billingsley Road, Charlotte, NC 28211.

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