Robert E. Richters Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Robert Erwin Richters May 24, 1925 - September 27, 2013. Bob began his service to country and community early by enlisting in the service and participating in WWII as a 2nd Class P.O. in the Navy at the age of 16. He earned 6 medals fighting in the Pacific Theater. After returning from combat he had a brief adventure with a dairy business but found his true calling in law enforcement. He graduated from the St. Louis Police Academy on January 7, 1952, a day on which his mother has never been prouder. He began a 38 year career serving the people of the city he loved. Through the years he received 3 Chief’s Letters of Commendation and led 14 years at the rank of Captain commanding 5 divisions: The Second, Third and Fourth Districts, the Vice/Narcotics Division and the Homicide/Arson Division. Bob was recognized at his retirement with Missouri House Resolution No. 273. Shortly after he began walking a beat he met Doris Niehaus, married her and embarked on building a life together. They had two daughters and spent many years vacationing at Lake of the Ozarks, fixing up the house (tools, we have lots of tools) and creating fun from the resources available. Who else would let you use the family station wagon for a 'float' in the school parade? They were married 34 years until her passing in January, 1993. A believer in education he sent both daughters, Carla and Tracy, to college while completing an Associate Degree himself (mostly to stop the whining). "Knowledge is the frontier of tomorrow" was a favorite theme for gift clocks and pen sets. As he was a very lucky man, Bob married Veronica (Ronnie) LaBeau in June of 1995 and acquired an extended family. This includes three step-sons, their wives, five grandchildren and most recently an adored great-grand child. He went on the trip of his life with Ronnie - seeing the Alaska wilds. His favorite picture is a sunrise from the Inside Passage. He had a grand life. Not bad for a boy from Nebraska Ave, St. Louis, MO. Waiting for him is a posse of people and pets. He will be missed, he was loved and, with any luck, we'll see him on the other side.