RICHARD K. WALLER

1952 - 2024

RICHARD K. WALLER It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Richard Keith Waller, who died peacefully surrounded by his family on June 25, 2024, at the age of 71. Rick was born on November 12, 1952, in Mexico, Missouri, to Charles and Pauline Waller. He earned a Bachelor's Degree in Music from Southwest Baptist University and worked as a Music Minister as well as a skilled carpenter and handyman. Rick's passion, ethics, integrity, and ingenuity shone through in everything he did, and his dry, corny humor always put people at ease. Rick is survived by his loving wife Donna Kaye (Hawley) Waller, their children Amanda (Waller) Williams (husband Ben) and Aaron Waller (wife Christy); brother Terry Waller (wife Carolyn); and his beloved grandchildren: Katelyn (Kat), Sabastian, Sheldon, and Skyler. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Pauline Waller, and his brother David Waller. An ordained deacon, Rick was actively involved in his community as a music minister and choir director, leading congregations in song for most of his life. Rick's involvement in church youth groups and mission trips, as well as his leadership in church drama groups, showcased his dedication to helping others and sharing his passions. During church youth trips, he loved to share his passion for the natural world with the young people, so they always knew that "Ranger Rick" would have something interesting to show them. Also known as "Rick the Magician" on job sites, he was known for his ability to solve any problem, often engineering tools from scratch, and he was well respected for never charging more than he thought was fair. Rick loved nature, and he enjoyed hiking, camping, and fishing. He always maintained a large vegetable garden and was an avid collector of fossils and other geological specimens. He also had a deep passion for history and genealogy, and he collected and played various musical instruments. To Rick, growing older didn't mean giving up the youthful pursuits that keep life vibrant. He held onto his sense of playfulness, curiosity, and joy, never allowing societal expectations or fear of judgment to dampen his spirit. A visitation will be starting at 5:30 pm on Friday, July 5th, at Heartland Church in Blue Springs, Missouri, followed by the funeral at 7:00 pm. The church is located at 400 SW Lake Village Blvd, Blue Springs, MO 64014. Arrangements: Royer Funeral Home, Oak Grove, MO 816-690-4441