Richard Leroy Walma passed away with his family by his side December 29, 2023 at his home in Stanwood. He was born to John and Lorraine (Levandusky) Walma on January 16, 1948 in Byron Center. Richard was a graduate of Big Rapids High School. He married Karen Barrett on June 28, 1968. Richard and Karen raised their family in Stanwood, where he owned and operated J & R Well Drilling for 20 years. Richard attended the NASA Boating School in Indiana, and became a certified boat mechanic. He went on to become the lead mechanic at Parkers Landing where he also enjoyed snow plowing in the winter. Richard retired in 2001, and loved spending most of his free time on The Muskegon River in his pontoon boat. He loved fishing, and spending time with his children and grandchildren. Richard was a tinkerer, and enjoyed keeping himself busy with fixing things. He also had a deep love for animals. Richard is survived by his loving wife Karen; three children Kevin (Deb) Walma of Stanwood, Robin (Dan) Fron of Newaygo, and Keith Walma of Tucson, Arizona; five grandchildren, Brittany Behrenwald (Jason Wernette), Tyler Walma (Chrystal Smith), Ryan (Becky) Hayner, Coty (Becca) Walma, and Curtis Kotrch. 14 great grandchildren; two sisters Sandy (Larry) Weber, and Pat Waijboer. Several nieces and nephews, and his beloved pet Annabell. Richard was preceded in death by parents, brother John, and three sisters Shirley, Margaret, and Jean. Funeral services will take place 1 pm on Friday, January 5, 2024 at Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids. The family will greet friends 1 hour prior to the funeral on Friday at the Funeral Home. Richard will be laid to rest at Stanwood Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made to the family. Share a memory or leave a condolence for the family at www.daggettgilbertfuneralhome.com Funeral Service Friday, January 5, 2024 1:00 PM Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home 13985 Northland Drive Big Rapids,MI 49307 The family will greet friends Friday, January 5, 2024 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home 13985 Northland Drive Big Rapids,MI 49307