Richard E. Echler, age 69, of Delta, passed away unexpectedly Saturday evening, September 1, 2012.  He was born in Delta on September 25, 1942.  Dick was a 1960 graduate of Delta High School.  He worked in the tool room at Champion Spark Plug as a lathe operator for over 29 years.  After Champion's closing, he retired and became a self employed cabinet maker.  Some of his work can still be viewed today at such places as the Delta Library and the Delta High School.  Along with professional pieces he also made furniture for his nieces, nephews and friends.  In addition to wood working, he also enjoyed fishing with his sons and family members.  One notable spot was Alabama.  Dick will also be remembered for driving the speed boat during waterskiing adventures with his great nieces and great nephew and running the clock at the Delta Football Games for over 30 years.  He was a member of the Delta Eagles. Dick was preceded in death by his parents, Velda (Richards) McQuillin and Bill McQuillin; grandparents, William and Mary Richards and one brother, Bill Echler.  He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Mary (Gadzialski) Echler; children, Tod (Tina) Echler of Jacksonville, FL, Doug Echler of Chicago and Wendy Echler of Toledo; brothers, Larry and Alan McQuillin of Delta and sister, Mary Ann (Glen) Griffin of Delta; sister-in-law, JoAnn Echler; nephew, Tony (Mary) Echler of Delta; great nieces, Stephanie and Katelyn Echler and great nephew, Logan Echler.  Friends and family will be received from 2-4 and 6-8 PM on Thursday, September 6, 2012 at Barnes Funeral Chapel, 5825 St. Hwy. 109, in Delta.  A funeral service for Dick will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday at the funeral home.  Interment will follow at Greenlawn Cemetery in Delta.  Those wishing a show of sympathy are asked to consider contributions to the Delta Fire Department, 500 E. Main St., Delta, Ohio 43515 or the Delta Public Library, 402 Main St., Delta, Ohio 43515 in Dick's memory.  Online condolences may be sent to the family through our website at www.barnesfuneralchapel.com

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