Obituary of Richard L. Packard

Richard Lewis "Dick" Packard died peacefully, surrounded by family at Juniper Village at Brookline-Wellspring. He was 83 years old. Dick was born in Williamsport, PA on October 17, 1933, the son of Eldric "Red" Packard and Ruth Seidel Packard. He graduated from Williamsport High School and Williamsport Technical Institute. He then spent 2 years in the U.S. Army, serving in Korea. Dick married Janet Bixler in 1957, and they had three sons. He worked at Ingersoll Rand in Painted Post, New York; then as a mechanical engineer at Chemcut in State College for 31 years. Dick was on the first aid squad at Penn State for 31 years, providing first aid coverage at sports events. He was a member of the American Legion in State College. He was very active at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, serving on the vestry, singing in the choir, and chairing the property committee for 20 years. Dick loved all sports and was an avid outdoorsman. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping. He participated in many sports over the years: softball, volleyball, and most recently golf as a member of the Burning Tee men's golf league. Dick is survived by a brother Wayne (Helen) of Montoursville, PA; his wife Janet; 3 sons Scott (Holly) of State College, Rick (Tonya) of Atlanta, and Jeff (Sian) of Spotsylvania, VA; and 7 grandchildren Brandon, Nicole, Dean, Maggie, Ruth, Aaron, and David. Dick enjoyed talking with anyone. He never met a stranger. Even though dementia took much from him in his later years, he never lost his good nature and sense of humor. The family will receive visitors at Koch Funeral Home from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24. A funeral service will be held at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in State College at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 25, with a reception following. Burial will be at Centre County Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the St. Andrew's choir, 208 W. Foster Ave., State College, PA 16801. Arrangements are under the care of Koch Funeral Home, State College. Online condolences and signing of the guest book may be entered at www.kochfuneralhome.com.