Richard H. Stamm, passed away Sept. 18, 2014 at Golden Living Brandywine in Greenfield. Dick was born July 25, 1935, to Willa Mae (Thaxton) and John Herbert Stamm in Indianapolis, one of five children.
He grew up on the west side of Indianapolis and was a proud alumnus of George Washington High School, graduating in 1954. He was a member of the varsity basketball and golf teams.
After attending college at Pasadena City College and San Jose State University, Dick served in the Marine Corps and Army. He returned to Indianapolis where he met Nancy Bush. They were married on February 19, 1961.
Dick owned his own business for many years. He was a member of Orchard Park Presbyterian Church, Indianapolis. He had been active in many community organizations over the years and served on the Shelby Eastern School Board for two terms.
Life was an adventure for Dick. There was always a new destination, a new wine, a new golf club or a new restaurant to check out. He loved to travel covering all of the US as well as most of Europe. He made friends everywhere he went, including Russian soldiers, fellow diners and other travelers. He was a mentor to many – children and adults – throughout his life.
He was passionate about many things – golf and wine were two of his greatest pleasures. He was a scratch golfer for many years and his children grew up thinking everyone’s dad brought home trophies and prizes after every golf outing. One of the highlights of his life was the week he spent golfing in Scotland with friends. He loved nothing more than sharing a bottle or two of wine with friends and family, or if they weren’t wine drinkers, he was sure to have their favorite beverage available.
Nancy survives, along with his children, Cyndy (Steve) Searfoss of South Bend, Kevin (Chrissy) Stamm of Fort Wayne, and Kim (Nick) Kile of Greenfield; as well as grandchildren, Emily Kile, Erik Kile, Erin Kile, Alex Searfoss, Ethan Kile, Zach Searfoss, Audrey Stamm, Christopher Stamm and Caroline Stamm. Family meant the world to him, and he adored his grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his siblings, Jackie Sacchinelli, Edrice Lozano, Jim Stamm and Carole Ann Neddo, as well as his in-laws, Bob and Marie Bush.
The family would like to thank the staff and caregivers at Golden Living Brandywine and Aseracare Hospice for taking such wonderful care of Dick.
Visitation will be held from 4 until 8 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2014, at Erlewein Mortuary & Crematory, 1484 W. US Hwy. 40, Greenfield, IN 46140. A celebration of life will be held at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 21, 2014, at Orchard Park Presbyterian Church, 1605 E. 106th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46280.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Orchard Park Presbyterian Church, 1605 E. 106th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46280, Alzheimer’s Association, 50 East 91st Street, Suite 100, Indianapolis, IN 46240, or your favorite charity.
Friends may share a memory or send a condolence at www.erleweinmortuary.com or email condolences to [email protected].
