Richard G. Schuchmann, 73, of Springfield, died at 7:20 a.m. on Sunday, October 2, 2016 at St. John's Hospital.

Richard was born on September 29, 1943 in Centralia, IL, the son of George Otto and Madeline Roxolla Thomas Schuchmann. He married Gusta Spierings on July 6, 1968 in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

Richard graduated from Lanphier High School. He served our country in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War, serving in Korea and Germany as well. Additionally, he was embedded with the Marine Corps Special Forces for some time in Vietnam. Richard was a Purple Heart recipient, and was a courier for NATO in Germany. Richard worked as a mail carrier for 43 years and walked his route for the entirety of his career. He was a strong and brave man, loved the outdoors, and was a great teacher to his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed black powder shooting, fishing, hunting, and gardening. Richard was also known for taking in all kinds of animals.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Norma Rueter and Mildred Carson; and many animal friends.

He is survived by his wife, Gusta; his daughters, Mirjam (Grant) Naughton of Springfield, Yasmin (Jonathan) Nixon of Chatham; his grandsons, Ryan Allen, Ryker and Rowan Nixon, and Jace Naughton; his sister, Joann Morris of Springfield; and his best friend, Jerry King (Karen High) of Virginia.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Animal Protective League, 1001 Taintor Ave, Springfield, IL 62702.
Visitation: Family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 6, 2016 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th Street, Springfield. The visitation will begin with a prayer service.
Funeral Mass: 9:00 a.m. Friday, October 7, 2016 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 1345 N. 6th Street, Springfield, with Rev. Steven Janoski officiating. Burial will follow at Camp Butler National Cemetery with military honors.

Please visit butlerfuneralhomes.com to offer your condolences.