Richard Laurence Stelzer

Richard Laurence Stelzer of Washington, Pa., died suddenly Sept. 10 at The Washington Hospital. He was 84.

He was born in Laurel Jan. 7, 1928, to Laurence and Kathleen (Richard) Stelzer and graduated from Riverhead High School and St. Bonaventure University in Allegany, N.Y. He served in the U.S. Army in Germany following World War II and for two years of the Korean conflict. He married Alice C. Monahan on Oct. 5, 1957, in Marlboro, N.Y.

Mr. Stelzer started his career as a manager trainee for Sears, Roebuck and Company and retired as assistant national customer service manager for Montgomery Ward. He was also a buyer for Cluett, Peabody & Company for five years.

An avid Steelers and Pirates fan, he enjoyed golf and gardening, according to family members, and was passionate about his Roman Catholic faith.

Mr. Stelzer is survived by his wife; his son, Sean, of West Bloomfield, Mich.; his daughter, Sherrell Parker of Washington; his brother Edwin, of Damariscotta, Maine; his sister, Mary Roche of Riverhead; and two grandchildren. He was predeceased by his brother William.

Visiting hours took place Sept. 13 at Piatt and Barnhill Funeral Home in Washington. A funeral liturgy was celebrated Sept. 14 at Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal Catholic Church in Meadow Lands, Pa., the Rev. Carmen D’Amico officiating. Interment was private.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Disabled American Veterans, 1000 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15222 (dav.org) or Miraculous Medal Church, Pike Street, Meadow Lands, PA 15347. Condolences may be expressed at piattandbarnhillfh.com.