Richard (“Rich”) Ray Wion, 73, made his Journey Home late November 6, 2024, while still in his own home, being uplifted and loved by his attentive family members. After a challenging but brief uphill climb on stony terrain, he was able to attain and enjoy a peaceful Mountaintop View before his Spirit was free to fly from his Earthly Vessel. His heart was weary and could sustain him no longer.
Rich was raised on a family farm in Versailles, Ohio, where he had three older brothers, one older sister, and a missing older brother who had died when a toddler. He began early to show his creativity in solving problems. When he was about ten, he knew he had two chores to accomplish: mow lawn and churn butter. He put the cream in a round glass jar, wrapped it in several layers of burlap, attached that to the back of the mower with twine so that it would roll constantly while the mower went forward, and proceeded to accomplish both jobs simultaneously. Rich spent the rest of his life solving problems equally creatively, often with available spare parts and broken tools. A member of the Manchester Church of the Brethren, he was a sincere Christian with friends from many denominations and persuasions other than his own because he cared about all people, no matter their age, political bent, skin color, sexual orientation, or outward looks. He tried to exemplify the words of Jesus in his daily living, being a deeply caring and loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He is missed and mourned by many.
He was predeceased by his father and mother, Talbert Otis and Helen Lucille (Aukerman) Wion and brother Donny Joe. He is survived by his wife, Dianne (“Di”) L. (Petry) Wion; son, David R. Wion; daughter, Danelle L. (Wion) Barkey (Benjamin R); grandchildren, Dylan M. and Aliah J. Barkey, along with older Wion brothers, T. Leroy (Iris), Sheldon (Carol), and James (Charletta) as well as sister Margaret (Wion) Miller and the collective progeny.
A memorial service will be in the Manchester Church of the Brethren on November 24, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. with visitation following.
The family of Richard Wion has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.
