Richard Connors

Richard Connors, 79, passed away July 21, 2016, in Lakeway, Texas. He was born September 18, 1936 in Logansport, Indiana to Paul and Phyllis Connors. Richard grew up and attended schools in Logansport, Indiana. After his graduation, Richard joined the U.S. Air Force. In 1956, Richard married the love of his life, Ruth Ann Tennison.

After serving in the Air Force, Richard earned his B.S. in Microbiology at Purdue University. He then joined the U.S. Army, where he attended flight school. Richard served his country in the US Army as an aeromedical evacuation pilot (DUSTOFF) in the Vietnam War. He completed many rescue missions, saving and helping anyone he could. In 1968, during his second tour of duty in Vietnam, he was shot while attempting an air ambulance rescue. His bravery in the war earned him a Purple Heart Medal and Bronze Star Medal. He medically retired with honors from the US Army as a Major. Richard then completed his M.S. in Science Education at Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas and a PhD in Administrative Education at the University of Texas- Austin. Richard then worked for as a civil servant for the U.S. Army in Fort Sam Houston, Texas and Fort Detrick, Maryland.

Richard was an active member of the DUSTOFF Association. In addition, for many years, he served on the Bandera County Water Board, contributed regular editorials to the Bandera Bulletin, volunteered for the Pipe Creek Volunteer Fire Department, and donated hours of his time to the Texas Institute of Culture, where he completed dozens of oral histories of Texas military pilots. He also assisted homeless dogs by donating the use of one of his houses to the local animal welfare society.

Richard always enjoyed gardening, traveling, and do it yourself projects, but his favorite pastime was wood-working. His children and grandchildren have many furniture pieces that were created by Richard and these items will be cherished for many generations to come.

Richard and Ruth raised three children together. They also shared a passion for travel. During their children's early teenage years, Ruth and Richard moved their family to Cork, Ireland, where Richard taught at a secondary school. During their one year stay in Ireland, the family traveled most weekends and discovered countless castles in overgrown pastures.

Richard and Ruth lived in Pipe Creek, Texas for over 30 years, and they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 2006. Ruth passed away unexpectedly March 2009. Her loss was unbearable to everyone.

Richard is survived by three children: Joe Connors (wife Leilani), Susan Connors, and Krista Connors James (husband Bill James). He also leaves behind 5 grandchildren, Paige Connors, Cade Connors, Clare James, Erin James, and Donn James.