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Richard S. Wester, 82, of Marquette, MI passed away Monday, July 11, 2011 at the D. J. Jacobetti Home for Veterans in Marquette.

He was born at St. Luke's Hospital in Marquette on January 5, 1929 to Fritz E. Wester and Edna C. (Laurie) Wester. He graduated from Graveraet High School in 1946 and joined the U.S. Army stationed at Fort Sam Houston, Texas. He later graduated from Northern Michigan University with a Bachelor of Science from the College of Education on January 31, 1958.

He took a job with Chicago Title in Chicago, Illinois and later returned to Marquette, acquiring the Marquette County Abstract Company where he happily worked without missing a day to illness for 40 years.

During that time he served in the Marquette Exchange Club, Lions Club, and Air Force Association, was a member of the Elks Club and served on the non group member selection council of Blue Cross Blue Shield.

In 1971 he married Patricia A. (Sharkey) Wester and they recently reached the 40 year marriage milestone on April 10 of this year.

Dick was an avid sports fan, enjoyed attending NMU hockey and football games, Red Wing hockey and was devoted to watching the Green Bay Packers. He was most proud of his trip to watch the Packers in Super Bowl II at the Orange Bowl in Miami, Florida.

Dick began playing golf 30 years ago and it quickly became his passion. When not playing golf with his wife, Pat, he was usually found reading about golf, practicing, studying and especially watching instructional golf videos. He and Pat loved the outdoors and traveling, and were fond of gardening together.

Richard "Dick" will always be remembered as the consummate gentleman. Rarely was there not a smile on his face.

Richard is survived by his loving wife and family, Patricia Ann Wester of Marquette, a son, Chad R. (Nicole) Wester of Marquette, and a daughter, Julie (Brad) Pickering of Rockford, IL, and their 2 sons, Tyler and Max; two step-daughters, Teri L. (Mike) Kirkwood and Traci (Mike) Prunick; grandchildren, Angela (Mike) Sjolund, Christopher Prunick, Scott Prunick and Jordan Prunick; also one great grandchild, Trevor Slinkard.

A celebration of Dick's life along with a reception will take place on Sunday, August 14th from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Marquette Golf Club. Burial will take place in the Park Cemetery.

Memorials are to be directed to the D.J. Jacobetti Home for Veterans where Dick was welcomed and received excellent care for six years. The family wishes to express sincere gratitude to the staff of Jacobetti for the compassionate care they all provided.

The Canale-Tonella Funeral Home is assisting the family where memories may be shared at www.canalefuneral.com.