Richard Dean Whirledge

Richard Dean Whirledge. 61, of Goshen, died at his home Sunday afternoon, March 30, 2014. He had been ill the past two years. He was born October 11, 1952 in Goshen to Ernest and Phyllis (Swihart) Whirledge. He is survived by his daughter, Beth Whirledge of Charlotte, N.C.; his mother, Phyllis Whirledge of Goshen; two brothers, Mike (Peggy) Whirledge of Rochester, and Ed (Vicki) Whirledge of Etna Green; and his former wife, Rosemary Sherard of Huntersville, N.C. He was preceded in death by his father. Richard graduated from Goshen High School in 1971. An outstanding athlete, he played football and basketball and ran track. He continued long distance running, favoring 10K races. An animal lover, he rode horses his whole life and owned and raised horses. He had a special affection for Labrador dogs, most recently, a lab named Charlie. He had a special relationship with his daughter, Beth. She was the focus of his life and always called her his girl. A brick mason for 40 years, he worked for Vanderwey & Son, Hoogenboom Masonry and Butt & Timmons. He attended West Goshen Church of the Brethren. Friends may call from 1 until the 3 p.m. memorial service on Thursday, April 3, 2014, at West Goshen Church of the Brethren. Pastor Norm Replogle will officiate. Memorial contributions may be given to West Goshen Church of the Brethren or Goshen Home Care and Hospice.