Richard Thomas Wallinger, age 71, of Northfield, died on Sunday, June 8, 2014 in the Veteran Affairs Medical Center in Tomah.

Richard was born on December 17, 1942 in Milwaukee to Walter and Charlotte (Hass) Wallinger. He married Charlotte R. Sesvold on October 25, 1986 in Pigeon Falls.

Richard entered the United States Army on December 31, 1959 and retired as a Sergeant First Class on January 31, 1980 at Ft. Leonard Wood, MO. Among his awards were the Meritorious Service Medal, The Bronze Star Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Army Commendation Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Good Conduct Medal (6 awards), the Vietnam Service Medal with one Bronze and one Silver Star and the Civic Action Medal 1st. Class.

Richard was employed at the Trempealeau County Department of Social Services as an Economic Support Specialist administering medical assistance for nursing homes and the Community Options programs prior to his retirement.

Richard was a life member of the American Legion, Trempealeau County 40/8, AmVets Post #1 and the Black River Falls DAV Post. He was also a local unit volunteer for the Salvation Army for twelve years.

Richard is survived by his wife Charlotte; two step-daughters, Rhonda of Northfield and Rachelle (Dan) Guse of Pigeon Falls; a granddaughter, Rhianna; two great-grandchildren and his mother-in-law, Marvel Sesvold of Whitehall.

In addition to his parents, Richard was preceded in death by a son, David and two brothers, David and James.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, July 13, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. in the Northfield Legion Hall in Northfield.

Military services and burial will be in the Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Spooner at a later date.

The Jack Funeral Home in Whitehall is assisting the family with arrangements.