Wallace Richard Struben

August 26, 1944 - August 18, 2010

Wallace Richard (Rick) Struben, 65, of Westport died August 18, 2010.

Rick was born Aug. 26, 1944 in Seymour and grew up in Butlerville, spending his younger days around horses and cars. He graduated from North Vernon High School in 1962 and served as a Green Beret in the Army from 1965 to 1967. He married Vickie Littell in 1966 and they later had two children (Richard and Chrystal). He was employed by Cummins Engine Company for more than 30 years, retiring as a heating and refrigeration journeyman.

In 1976, Rick married Charleen Struben. They had two children (Rob and Kim) and spent many happy years on their property in Westport Indiana, serving as the foster parent for countless children, and spending time together and with their family.

Rick was known for his love of motors, old movies and the outdoors. He was a kind and generous man, always willing to help a friend or neighbor in need. The Struben's house was also open to others and they rarely met a stranger.

Rick is survived by his mother Alice M. Corya, Columbus, his four children Robert Earl Struben (Sherry), Westport; Richard L. Struben, Hamburg, Germany; Chrystal L. Struben, Indianapolis; and Kimberly Rae Ann Grey (Jason), Westport; and eight grandchildren.

He is also survived by sister Sherry Campbell (Ted), Columbus, Step-sisters, Sue Redicker, Seymour; Lou Robbins, Jackie Bower, Judy Castetter and Alice Gahimer, all of North Vernon; and half-brother Gary Struben (Jeanne),Gaston.

He is preceded in death by beloved sister Anita Struben, cherished wife
Charleen Struben, father Robert H. Struben, Step-mother Josie Struben and step-father Clarence Corya.

Funeral Information

A memorial service with Rev. Connie Barr will be held at 7 p.m. on Monday, August 23, at Sawyer-Picket Funeral Home. Visitation will begin at 4 p.m. until the time of the service. A ceremony to scatter ashes will begin at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, August 24 at Otter Creek Cemetery.

Donations Information

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the Family or to Bob & Josie Memorial Scholarship Fund through Sawyer-Pickett Funeral Home .