Richard J. Wetter

In Loving Memory of Richard Wetter
July 21, 1932 – December 19, 2024

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Richard Wetter, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, on December 19. His 92 years of life were marked by devotion, hard work, and a legacy of love.

Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on July 21, 1932, Richard attended Cardinal Messmer High School. After graduating, he joined the Army and served as a Radio Operator in Germany during the Korean War. Returning to the States, he attended Marquette University, where he earned his degree in Engineering, laying the foundation for a drafting career.

Richard met Mary Ann Verzal through a church group called the Young Peoples Club. On June 27, 1959, Richard married the love of his life, and together they built a wonderful life filled with family and faith. The couple settled in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, where Richard worked for AC Spark Plug until 1965 before being transferred to the Cleveland area. Over the years, Richard thrived as an Electrical Engineer at the Cleveland Tank Plant, Gould Ocean Systems, and Westinghouse.

Richard and Mary Ann raised their four children in Berea, Ohio, where they attended St. Adalbert Church and prioritized Catholic education for their children. Family was at the heart of Richard’s life. Summers were spent on road trips back to Wisconsin to visit loved ones and camping adventures across the Eastern U.S., creating cherished memories that live on today.

A dedicated provider, Richard taught his children the value of hard work and financial responsibility. He was a loving father who delighted in playing outdoors, driving his children to their many hobbies, practices, and cheering them on at events. In his later years, he extended that same playful energy to his grandchildren, spending time on the floor building trains and blocks with them.

Retiring in 1997, Richard remained active for decades, attending family reunions, memorable vacations, and other treasured events. A man of deep faith and humility, he loved to read, served as a lector at church, and was always ready to lend a hand as the “Mr. Fix-It” of the family. His daily walks through the neighborhood and to the library were a testament to his quiet joy in life’s simple moments.

Richard is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Mary Ann; his children, James (Mary) Wetter, Jean (John) Hamilton, Thomas (Annie) Wetter, and Elizabeth (Michael) Clifford; his grandchildren Jeffrey (Meredith) Hamilton, Kevin (Katie) Hamilton, Daniel Hamilton, Maggie (Thomas) Lambert, Eli Wetter, Emily Wetter, Ian and Ella Clifford; and his great-grandson, James Hamilton. He is fondly remembered by extended family, friends, and all who were blessed to know him.

We noted his favorite things: a good “room temperature” dark beer and sharing family meals with his enviable ability to eat third helpings without gaining weight. While we grieve the loss of this extraordinary man, we celebrate a life that was authentic, lived with purpose, kindness, and love. Richard touched countless hearts and leaves behind a legacy of faith, humility, and joy that will endure through generations.

Services: A celebration of Richard’s life will be held Friday, December 27th from 6:00pm-8:00pm, Baker Funeral Home at 206 Front Street, Berea, Ohio, Mass of Christian Burial will be on Saturday December 28th at 11:00am at St. Adalbert Church, 66 Adalbert Street, Berea, Ohio.

In Lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made to Alzheimer’s Association (act.alz.org)

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