Richard O. Witte

Heaven gained a new baritone on Wednesday, September 5, 2018. Richard Owen Witte of Chickasha joined the chorus of angels shortly after celebrating his 70th birthday and 43rd wedding anniversary.

Richard was born on August 13, 1948, in Oklahoma City. He attended Northwest Classen High School, where he sang with the Cry-Slurs and graduated in 1966. Richard attended the University of Oklahoma, majoring in vocal music performance, graduating in 1972. He did his post-graduate studies at Oklahoma City University, where he performed in the cast of each show in Lyric Theater's 1974 season.

After working in store management with Safeway, Richard began his insurance career with Sentry Insurance, transferring to Chickasha in 1980. He joined the Mosley Agency in the mid 1980's, and worked there on his clients' behalf for more than 30 years until his death.

Richard became a member of Canterbury Choral Society in the fall of 1995. As an enthusiastic singer, he has participated in numerous concerts, as well as performances at Carnegie Hall in New York City, in China and throughout Europe. His friendship and his voice will be missed by all who had the honor to sing with him.  In addition to his musical performance, Richard served as choir director at Linwood United Methodist Church in Oklahoma City, and First Presbyterian Church and Epworth United Methodist Church in Chickasha.

Richard was a loving son, husband, father, grandfather, and family man. He was a loyal friend to many, and a lifelong Sooner who proudly supported the University of Oklahoma. OU/TX weekend will not be the same without him.

Richard was a servant leader who left a legacy of civic service throughout Chickasha.  Richard served on organizations including Chickasha Kiwanis, Relay for Life, Chickasha Festival of Light, Epworth United Methodist Church, Chickasha Soccer, Chickasha Chamber Ambassadors, and more.

Richard is preceded in death by his parents, Marjorie and Melvin Witte; wife Janice Hester Witte; and son, John Edward Witte.

Richard is survived by his wife, Joyce, son Robert Witte (and wife Debbie) of Plano, Texas; son David Witte (and wife Carrie) of Arcadia, OK; daughter Brooke McHugh (and husband Cody) of Verden, OK; daughter-in-law Shelbie Witte Mondoux (and husband Michael) of Stillwater, OK; and special friends Charlotte Southerland and Pilar Escobar of Chickasha, OK.

Richard is also survived by all of his grandchildren, who lovingly called him "Papa". They include: Nick Witte (and wife Taylor), Preston McCormick, Brandon and Courtney Witte, and Whitney and Addison McHugh. He is also survived by great-granddaughter Kimber McCormick.

Richard touched the lives of many other family members and friends.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Choir Fund at Epworth United Methodist Church in Chickasha.