Richard W. Viets, age 83, a life-long resident of Bloomsburg died on Wednesday morning, May 29, 2013 under the care of Columbia Montour Home Hospice at Maria Hall, Danville.
Richard was born on Saturday, April 26, 1930 in Bloomsburg, a son of the late Carl B. and Jessie M. (Roderick) Viets. He was a member of the 1951 Graduating Class of the Bloomsburg High School. Following his education, Richard enlisted in the United State Air Force where he served his country faithfully during the Korean Conflict. On January 29, 1963, Richard was honorably discharged from his time of service as an Airman First Class. For many years, Richard was employed with the grounds keeping crew of the Susquehanna University. Most recently, he was employed by Bloomsburg University for over 10 years, also as a grounds keeper until his retirement in 1991. He was a life-long member of the Wesley United Methodist Church, and also a member of the former Liberty Fire Company. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge #265 F&AM and also received the honor of his 60 year membership from the Caldwell Consistory. He was also a member of the Bloomsburg VFW Ft. McClure Post #804.
Richard will always be remembered for his dedication and contributions of service to his community while working at the Bloomsburg Fire Co., the Caldwell Consistory and the former Capital Movie Theater. Richard loved spending time at the movie theater and deeply enjoyed watching old films. Richard also spent many hours enjoying his love of swimming at the Bloomsburg Town Pool.
Survivors include a son: Richard S. Viets and wife, Kimberly, of Bear, DE; a daughter: Debra L. Johnson of Newark, DE; four grandchildren: Ryan Viets, Kayla Johnson, Brandon Viets and Alexi Viets. Richard was the last surviving member of his immediate family.
Richard was preceded in death, in addition to his parents, by two brothers: Carl E. Viets on April 9, 1996 and Jack H. Viets on Jun 20, 1992.
A time of Visitation for family and friends will be held on Monday afternoon, June 3 from 2 to 3 p.m. at the Allen Funeral Home, Inc., 745 Market at Eighth Street, Bloomsburg. Masonic services will be provided on Monday at 2 p.m. at the funeral home.
Funeral services will begin on Monday, June 3, at 3 p.m. at the Allen Funeral Home, Inc. with his pastor, Rev. Dr. Gary D. Weaver, officiating. Graveside services will immediately follow in Lime Ridge. A combined VFW/American Legion will provide full Military Honors. Memorial contributions in Richard's name are suggested to either: Columbia Montour Home Hospice at Maria Hall, 410 Glenn Ave., Suite 200, Bloomsburg, or the Bloomsburg Fire Hall, 911 Market Street, Bloomsburg.