William Richards

William Stevenson Richards, “Steve”, 59, of Circleville passed away on Monday, July 29 at his home after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. Steve leaves behind a wife, Loribeth Kowalski, his parents, William “Bill” and Grace Richards, brothers Bruce (Betsy) Richards and Elmon (Connie) Richards, many beloved nieces and nephews, and his special friend Ann Cox of Laguna Niguel, California. In addition he leaves behind five cats at the house and a barn full of cats at his farm; Steve had a great affection for all animals.
Steve was a graduate of Circleville High School and The Ohio State University. He farmed locally and loved spending time out on the land, but his greatest joy came from traveling and visiting art museums. Over the years Steve traveled throughout Europe and to Asia. His favorite destination was Italy, which he visited many times, to engross himself in Renaissance painting. Steve will be remembered for many things, including his dry humor, but perhaps most of all Circleville natives will remember when Steve won the state title in cross country by running the track barefoot in 1972. When asked why he ran barefoot Steve would explain that it was simply because he couldn’t have the shoes he wanted, so he didn’t wear any at all. Steve approached life as a creative problem solver, and his unique viewpoint will be sorely missed. Visiting hours will be held at Wellman Funeral Home in Circleville from 2:00-4:00 p.m. and 6:00-8:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 8. A memorial service will be held at Wellman Funeral Home on Friday, August 9 at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Diane Berger officiating. A meal will follow the memorial service at Richards Farms, 24537 Canal Road in Circleville. Family and friends are invited to come celebrate Steve’s life.
Steve’s ashes will be interred at private ceremonies at a later date, part on the farm in a small historic cemetery and part in Rome, Italy. Memorial contributions may be made to Berger Hospice, 1170 N. Court Street, Ste. B, Circleville, Ohio 43113 or D.A.S.H. Animal Rescue, 13525 Hoover Road, Ashville, Ohio 43103.