Richard Bullard

Richard L. “Buck” Bullard, 82, Independence, MO passed away Sunday, August 12, 2012.

Born June 8, 1930 to Arthur V. and Hazel N. (Kroh) Bullard, he was a lifelong resident of the Kansas City and Independence areas. He was a 1948 graduate of East High School. After high school Richard served in the U.S. Navy as a 2nd Class Seaman Photographer of the USS Philippine Seas Aircraft Carrier during the Korean War, he served from 1951 to 1959. Richard worked as a project manager for Butler Manufacturing Company for 43 years retiring in 1990. After retirement he enjoyed caring for his lawn and flowers and spending time with his family and friends. He and his wife took many trips seeing the outstanding places in the U.S. and Canada.

Richard was preceded in death by his twin sisters Shirley and Barbara and his parents.

Survivors include his loving wife Ruth Ann of 27 years; brother, Harold “Joe” Bullard of Bowling Green, KY; two sons, Randy Bullard and Scott Bullard and wife Kathy; four grandsons, Kelly and wife Karen, Chris, Adam and Kevin. He also acquired four step children when he and Ruth Ann married. Bill Gooch and wife Valerie, Mark Gooch and wife Sarah, Becky Tiffany and husband Wayne, and Sara Kriz and husband Tony. Seven additional grandchildren, Hillary, Billy, Rachel, Elizabeth, Michael, Joshua and Katie; two great grandchildren, Madelyn and Rylee; and numerous nieces, nephews in NM and KY. He was beloved by all who knew him for his sense of humor and his kind and caring ways. Richard will be missed by many.

Visitation will be from 9:30-10:30 a.m. Thursday at Speaks Suburban Chapel; 18020 E. 39th St., Independence, MO 64055. Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Burial to follow at Leavenworth National Cemetery with Military Honors. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Salvation Army or Calvary Presbyterian Church.