HICKORY, NORTH CAROLINA “ Howard Chester Richard, 82 of Hickory, North Carolina, passed away on Monday, January 18, 2016, at the Catawba Valley Medical Center in Hickory, North Carolina.
He was born March 8, 1933 in Painesville, Ohio, the son of Howard and Marjorie Strock Richard.  
He retired from Ports Petroleum after 40 years in various positions.
In addition to his wife, Anne Ports Richard,  he is survived by  sons, Thomas Richard of the Philippines and James Richard of Hickory, North Carolina; grandchildren, Dominque Navin of Kentucky and Julia and Jamie Richard of Hickory, North Carolina.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Glenn Richard.
Funeral Services will be held on Friday, January 22, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at the McIntire, Bradham & Sleek Funeral Home, 216 E. Larwill St., Wooster with the Rev. Kevin Phipps officiatinig.   Burial will be in the Wooster Cemetery.
A memorial service will be held on Monday, January 25, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Newton.
Those who wish may make contributions to the Catawba Regional Hospice, 3975 Robinson Rd., Newton, NC 28658 or to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mcintirebradhamsleek.com.

Memorial Contributions
Catawba Regional Hospice, 3975 Robinson Road, Newton, NC 28658 or to a charity of the donor’s choice

Service
Services Friday, January 22, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home

Visitation
No calling hours