Richard Edwin Buettner peacefully passed away on Tuesday, June 6, 2023 at the Norman Veterans Center surrounded by his family. He was 93 years old. The son of Mary Martha (Hobza) and Edwin John Buettner, Richard was born on February 14, 1930 in Kingfisher, Oklahoma. Richard was raised in the community of Kingfisher, Oklahoma, where he later graduated from Kingfisher High School in 1948. Shortly after graduation, on July 29, 1948, Richard enlisted in the U. S. Army National Guard. Subsequently, on September 1, 1950, he was ordered to active military duty answering the call to service. He was shipped out to Japan for training and then entered the Korean War Conflict. During this time he became a first lieutenant and earned a bronze star for bravery and gallantry. On May 3, 1952, Richard was released from active duty, but would continue his service to his country with the Army National Guard for several years, working at the 45th Infantry Armory in Oklahoma City. On August 22, 1950, Richard married the love of his life Betty Rose Parham. This union of marriage was blessed with six children: Debbie, Ricky, David, Larry, Randy and Lori. Together Richard and Betty worked tirelessly to support and provide for their family. They worshiped at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, where Richard served as a lector and in many other ministries of the church. Richard strived to be involved in each one of his children's lives, spending countless hours together boating, fishing and camping. As the family grew and a multitude of grandchildren and great grandchildren were born, the times together became more precious. Richard, Betty and the family always looked forward to celebrating every birthday and holiday together. They made every effort to make these times most memorable and make every individual feel special. Richard worked hard his entire life. After his military career, he was employed working in plant management for the original Dr. Pepper Bottling Plant on May Avenue near the fairgrounds for several years. He worked for an individual that had several laundromats in the city helping to maintain the equipment and facilities. This eventually led to Richard purchasing his own laundromat and operating this successfully for several years. When he was in his mid-60s, Richard went to work for the Western Heights Public School System as a Transportation Specialist. While he maintained a regular school bus route, Richard was sought out for special event transportation for the school and along the way built relationships with all he encountered, especially the students that referred to him as "Mr. B"- a moniker that still stands today. Richard was someone who his family and friends could always rely on. He was a humble, hardworking, and honest individual. He loved 50s music, especially "Old Country." Richard and Betty loved square dancing and even in his decline, he could be caught giving the nurses a twirl at the Norman Veterans Center. Our family is thankful and we hold precious in our hearts the many years we have been blessed to have our parents in our lives. We rejoice that they are now together living life to the fullest and awaiting our arrival in Heaven.

Richard was preceded in death by his:

Parents-Edwin John & Mary Martha (Hobza) Buettner;

Wife of 71 years-Betty Rose (Parham) Buettner;

Son-David Kent Buettner;

Brother-Kenneth Buettner;

Sisters-Margie Soudek, Alice Grellner, Marie McMillan and Katy Tener.

He leaves behind his loving family:

Daughter-Debra "Debbie" Carol Spears and husband, Steve;

Son-Ricky Lynn Buettner and wife, Cindy;

Son-Larry Edwin Buettner and wife, Deidre;

Son-Randy Dean Buettner and wife, Jalinda;

Daughter-Lori Ann Jackson and husband, Charlie;

Numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren;

Several nieces, nephews, cousins and countless friends.