Richard Robert Soendlin

Richard grew up on his family’s dairy farm in Napoleon, where he learned the value of hard work, responsibility, and steady perseverance, qualities that stayed with him throughout his life and were especially evident in his roles as husband, father, and Opa.

Richard devoted his life to education. He graduated in 1960 as a member of the final class of Napoleon High School before earning his B.S. from Butler University in 1965 and his M.S. from Purdue University. Over the course of more than four decades in the classroom, he taught at Jac-Cen-Del, Bishop Chatard, Crispus Attucks, and Arsenal Technical High Schools. He also served as an adjunct professor at Butler University, IUPUI, and Ivy Tech.

He was a teacher in the truest sense, someone who poured himself into his students, believed in their potential, and worked to make learning feel meaningful and alive. Many former students remember him for his sharp wit, deep knowledge, and kindness.

Richard was a man of faith. He was baptized in a creek at age 12 during church camp. He was an active member of East 91st Street Christian Church for more than four decades and pursued deeper study through Bible Study Fellowship.

Richard found joy in tending his garden, mowing the yard, and taking brisk walks. Music was a lifelong companion; he played the piano and especially loved classical music.

Richard was preceded in death by his mother, May; his father, Merle Richter; and his brother, Carl William Soendlin.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Rebecca (née Ashman); his daughters Rachel Hood (Mark), Sarah Collins (John), and Robin Sturdivant (Stephen); and his sister, Donna Sue Swigart (Bill). He was a proud Opa to Tristan Collins, Kathryn Hood, Isaac Hood (Hannah), and J.T. Hood, and a delighted great grandfather to Scarlett Collins. He also leaves behind many much-loved cousins, nieces, and nephews.

His family would like to thank the wonderful caregivers at American Village, Hooverwood Living, and A.R.N. Hospice for their excellent care. We are especially grateful to the staff at Joy’s House for their kind, compassionate support, which gave Richard two more years at home.

Visitation will be held on Friday, May 15, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and again on Saturday, May 16, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM, followed by the funeral service at 10:00 AM. Services will take place at Feeney Hornak Keystone Mortuary. Burial will follow at Flanner Buchanan – Washington Park North.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Joy’s House Adult Day Services & Caregiver Support at https://joyshouse.org/give/.