Richard Pelton

Richard Pelton, 81, of Turpin, Oklahoma, passed away on October 31, 2025, in Liberal, Kansas.

Richard was born on September 5, 1944, in Liberal, Kansas, to Forrest and Hope Pelton. He grew up in Turpin, Oklahoma, where he graduated from Turpin High School in 1962. He went on to attend OSU Tech, graduating in 1966.

Richard proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, where he worked as a mechanic. He received an honorable discharge in 1968.

On May 23, 1969, Richard married the love of his life, Dannie Meeks. Together they built a life full of hard work, laughter, and devotion to family. They were blessed with three children: Robin, Brian, and Jason.

Richard worked as an industrial mechanic throughout his career, with much of his work focused on the gas compression industry. Known for his strong work ethic and skill with all things mechanical, he could fix just about anything and enjoyed collecting tools along the way.

He had a lifelong love of classic cars, proudly owning a 1936 Ford pickup and a 1957 Chevy that reflected his appreciation for craftsmanship and history.

Richard is survived by his wife, Dannie, of the home; daughter Robin and her husband Charlie; son Brian and his wife Leslie; and son Jason. He was a proud grandfather to Lexia Cooper, Forrest Pelton, Jackson Cooper, Claire Pelton, and Spencer Pelton, and great-grandfather to Creede and Liam Goodin. He is also survived by his special niece, Pam Olney, and her husband Zach.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Forrest and Hope Pelton; brother, Forrest “Pete” Pelton; and sister, Lina Gale Albright.

Richard will be remembered for his witty sense of humor, his dedication to family, and his knack for keeping engines — and lives — running smoothly.

Viewing will be 1:00 pm to 7:00 pm Monday November 3, 2025 at Miller Mortuary.

Funeral Service will be 2:00 pm Tuesday November 4, 2025 at the Miller Mortuary Chapel with Pastor Stan Lehnert, officiating. Burial will follow at the Liberal City Cemetery.

Memorials may be made in his honor to Cal Farley’s Boys Ranch in Amarillo, Texas, or to Central Christian Church in Liberal, Kansas.