It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Richard Dart Wallmeyer, who departed this life on January 27, 2025 at the age of 76. Born in 1948 in Richmond, Virginia, Richard led a life full of passion, dedication, and unwavering faith that touched everyone he met.
Growing up on a farm in Virginia, Richard developed an early love for horses. At a young age, he began working at a nearby racehorse farm, where his deep bond with these magnificent animals grew. His devotion to horses led him to a successful career as both a jockey and a racehorse trainer for over 20 years. His work took him across the country and around the world, experiencing the thrill of racing and forming lifelong friendships along the way.
Richard proudly served in the United States Marine Corps, where he learned discipline, resilience, and a sense of duty that would guide him throughout his life. His time in the Marines instilled in him a lifelong commitment to service, and he carried that devotion with him in everything he did.
After settling back in Virginia, he met the love of his life, Robin, and they married, beginning a new chapter in their lives together. Together they had 7 beautiful children. A natural people person, he transitioned into the restaurant industry, where his passion for hard work, service, and connection to others thrived. Over the next 20 years, he worked in the restaurant business, rising to prominence in some of the finest five-star, five-diamond establishments. He found joy in the social aspect of the job, forging connections with coworkers and customers alike, and learned countless lessons about life and people along the way.
However, it was his deep, abiding faith that always guided him. A devoted member of the Third Order Franciscans, Richard lived a life of service, always seeking to help those in need. His faith led him to St. Mary’s, where he first arrived as a house father at the college. It was there that he helped guide and mentor young men, offering wisdom, kindness, and compassion to all. He was a familiar face at the chapel, spending many quiet moments in prayer and reflection, finding solace in his devotion to God’s Divine Providence.
Later in life, Richard founded St. Luke’s Painting Company, where his keen eye for detail and unwavering commitment to quality shone through in every project he took on. Whether painting a room or a home, he never compromised on the craftsmanship and took great pride in his work. His reputation for thoroughness and excellence earned him the respect of his clients and colleagues.
Those who knew Richard will remember him for his effervescent smile, kindness, and optimism. No matter the challenges he faced, he approached life with a "turn the other cheek" attitude, always trusting that God would provide. His unwavering faith and gentle spirit left an indelible mark on all who crossed his path.
Richard is survived by his wife, Robin, 5 children (Jacob Wallmeyer, Veronica (Wallmeyer) Coon, Gabriel Wallmeyer, Dominic Wallmeyer, and Margaret (Wallmeyer) Palmer) and 25 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by 2 children, Joshua Wallmeyer and Jacinta Wallmeyer. His legacy of love, faith, and service will continue to inspire and uplift all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A rosary will be recited at 5:20 PM on Friday, January 31, 2025 at The Immaculata, 701 N. 2nd St. in St. Marys. A Requiem Mass will be offered at 7:15 AM, Saturday, February 1, also at The Immaculata, with burial following in Our Lady of Peace Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations for mass offerings for Richard's intentions.
