Richard R. Ballweber, born on April 28, 1936, a snowy day and birth date he shared with our mother, passed away on October 14, 2024.  Richard attended grade school in Mt. Angel and Woodburn high school. Known for his charismatic personality, he was voted Cheer King by his peers, an early testament of his outgoing personality.

After graduating from Woodburn High School, Richard pursued a Geology degree at Oregon State University. He then proudly served as a pilot in the Army.  A cherished family memory is of him landing a small plane in the fields of our family farm in Monitor, a testament to his adventurous spirit.

After the military, Richard worked for the Forest Service in southern Oregon and gave flying lessons. He also continued flying search and rescue missions as a member of the Civil Air Patrol.   He later returned to Portland, where he applied his geology skills to help design foundations for dams and buildings, including downtown Portland's iconic US Bank Tower.

Richard spent most of his adulthood in Portland's Kenton neighborhood, where he was beloved by his neighbors. A dedicated member of the Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus, he remained active in community service after retirement, contributing to the church garden and food bank. Richard spent his last years at Mt Angel Towers creating more lasting friendships, enjoying social activities, and attending daily mass.

Richard is survived by his son, Jeff (Lora) Ballweber; sisters, Florence Fleskes, Jeanne (Gary) Jackson; brothers, James "Chip"(Lucy) Ballweber, Patrick (Jilda) Ballweber. He was preceded in death by parents James and Catherine, brothers Arnold and Donald. He will be deeply missed by family, friends, and all whose lives he touched.

Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, November 1, 2024, at 11:00 am at St. Mary Catholic Church Mt. Angel.